Is 'More Clearly' Grammatically Correct?

The Short Answer

Yes, 'more clearly' is grammatically correct. It is the comparative form of the adverb 'clearly' and follows standard English grammar rules for forming adverb comparisons.

Adverbs modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, and they often end in '-ly.' When comparing two actions or states, English uses 'more' before the adverb rather than adding a suffix like '-er.' This is why 'more clearly' is the standard comparative, not 'clearer' when modifying a verb.

When to Use 'More Clearly'

Use 'more clearly' when you want to compare how something is done with greater clarity. It typically modifies a verb, telling us that an action is performed in a more understandable or visible way.

• She explained the concept more clearly than the textbook.
• The instructions became more clearly understood after the diagram was added.

In these examples, 'more clearly' compares the degree of clarity in the action of explaining or understanding.

'Clearer' vs. 'More Clearly'

The confusion often arises because 'clear' has both an adjective and an adverb form. The adjective comparative is 'clearer,' while the adverb comparative is 'more clearly.' Using the wrong form can shift the meaning of a sentence.

If you are modifying an adjective or noun, use 'clearer.' If you are modifying a verb, use 'more clearly.'

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Some writers incorrectly use 'more clearer,' which is a double comparative and grammatically incorrect. Others use 'clearer' as an adverb, which is widely considered nonstandard in formal writing.

• Incorrect: He spoke more clearer than before.
• Incorrect: Speak clearer, please.
• Correct: He spoke more clearly than before.
• Correct: Speak more clearly, please.

Sticking to 'more clearly' as the adverb comparative keeps your writing grammatically sound and consistent with standard usage.