Worse: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when comparing two or more things, highlighting that one is notably more negative or of lower quality than the other.

• His performance in the second half of the game was worse compared to the first half.
• My cold got worse after I went out in the rain.

Use to describe something that is of lower rank, status, or quality, typically in a more formal or evaluative context.

• The quality of this brand's product is inferior to that of its competitors.
• He felt inferior to his colleagues because of his lack of experience.

Use when emphasizing the lack of quality, efficiency, or effectiveness compared to something else. It can carry a negative connotation.

• The poorer road conditions made it difficult to travel.
• He received poorer grades this semester.

Use for describing something that falls below the usual or required standard, often in formal or official contexts. It has a distinctly negative connotation.

• The substandard living conditions in the apartment complex were unacceptable.
• The company's substandard practices were exposed during the investigation.

Use to denote items, services, or results that do not meet certain standards of quality, often in consumer choices.

• The lower-quality materials used in the construction led to frequent repairs.
• We opted for the lower-quality product because it was cheaper.

Used when describing a condition or situation that is less good than before, commonly in everyday language.

• The weather is getting worse.
• His grades have gotten worse this semester.

Used to describe something that is currently becoming worse, typically in formal or technical discussions.

• The patient's condition is deteriorating.
• The road conditions are deteriorating due to heavy traffic.

Used in a professional or formal context to describe a gradual decrease in quality, quantity, or importance.

• The company's profits have been declining for years.
• There is a declining population in rural areas.

Used to describe something that has already become worse over time, often used in medical or technical contexts.

• His health has deteriorated rapidly.
• The building's structure has deteriorated due to neglect.

Used to indicate something that causes deterioration, often found in scientific or technical texts.

• Observations show that certain chemicals have a deteriorative effect on the material.
• The deteriorative process of the metal was evident over time.

Use when comparing a negative situation or condition to one that is less negative. It signifies a deterioration in quality or condition.

• The weather is getting worse.
• Her health is worse than it was last week.

Use when describing something negative happening with greater intensity or harshness. Typically used in medical, legal, or formal contexts.

• The patient was more severely injured in the second accident.
• The new policy affects poorer communities more severely.

Use to express a higher degree of something, often in a neutral or positive context.

• The new law will benefit the residents to a greater extent.
• She participated to a greater extent in the team's activities.

Use when indicating a greater distance or a more advanced point. It can also mean additional extent or degree in a less literal sense.

• He decided to travel further into the forest.
• The project will be delayed further.