Funnier or More Funny

When to Use "Funnier"

"Funnier" is the correct way to say that something or someone is more amusing than another. In English, when you want to compare two things, we use a comparative form of adjectives. For most adjectives with one syllable or two syllables ending in "y," we add "-er" to the word.

Since "funny" is a two-syllable adjective that ends in "y," we change the "y" to "i" and add "-er" to make it "funnier."

When to Use "More Funny"

"More funny" is not the common or correct way to compare things. However, it is still possible to hear it in informal speech. Some people may use "more funny," especially when they want to emphasize or sound casual, but it is grammatically incorrect. The correct comparative form of "funny" is always "funnier."

Why Is "Funnier" Correct?

In English, the rules for comparatives depend on how many syllables the adjective has. Here’s a quick guide:

• One-syllable adjectives: Add "-er." (e.g., small → smaller, tall → taller)

• Two-syllable adjectives ending in "y": Change "y" to "i" and add "-er." (e.g., funny → funnier, happy → happier)

• Two-syllable adjectives NOT ending in "y" or more: Use "more" before the adjective. (e.g., peaceful → more peaceful, careful → more careful)

Because "funny" ends in "y," it follows the rule of changing the "y" to "i" and adding "-er."

Common Errors

1. Using "more funny" instead of "funnier":

• Incorrect: The clown was more funny than the comedian.

• Correct: The clown was funnier than the comedian.

2. Forgetting to change "y" to "i":

• Incorrect: This joke is funnyer than that one.

• Correct: This joke is funnier than that one.

3. Using "funnier" for three or more things:

• When comparing three or more things, we use the superlative form: "funniest."

• Example: Of all the comedians, she is the funniest.

Everyday Use

You can use "funnier" when comparing two things, such as TV shows, jokes, or people. Here are some examples you can use in daily life:

• Jokes: That joke is funnier than the one you told yesterday.

• TV Shows: This show is funnier than the one we watched last week.

• Friends: My best friend is funnier than my brother.

FAQ

Can I say "more funnier"?

No, "more funnier" is incorrect. You should either say "funnier" or "more funny," but "funnier" is the grammatically correct form.

Is "funner" a word?

"Funner" is not considered proper English. The correct form is "more fun."

What is the superlative form of "funny"?

The superlative form is "funniest." Use it when comparing three or more things.

Is it wrong to say "more funny"?

While it's not grammatically correct, you might hear people say "more funny" in casual speech. However, "funnier" is the correct form.

How do I know when to use "more" or "-er"?

Use "-er" for adjectives with one syllable or two syllables ending in "y." Use "more" for longer adjectives with two or more syllables not ending in "y."