Worse

Definition

Worse refers to a comparative term indicating a lower quality, standard, or condition compared to another. It can describe something less favorable or more severe.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Adverb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /wɜrs/
• Respelling: WURSS

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /wɜːs/
• Respelling: WURS

Etymology

The word "worse" originates from Old English "wyrsa," the comparative form of "yfel" (evil or bad), derived from Proto-Germanic "*wirsiz." It is related to Proto-Indo-European "*wers-," meaning "to confuse or mix up."

Derivatives

• Worsen (verb)
• Worsening (noun/verb)
• Worst (superlative)
• Unworsened (adjective)
• Worser (adjective, archaic)

Synonyms

• Poorer
• Inferior
• Harsher

Antonyms

• Better
• Improved
• Superior

Usage

The term "worse" is used to compare two states or situations, indicating a decline or less favorable condition. For example, "His health is worse today than yesterday." As a noun, it can describe an adverse event, such as "Prepare for the worse."

Related Terms

• Better: The comparative form indicating improvement or superiority.
• Worst: The superlative form indicating the least favorable condition.
• Decline: A decrease in quality or condition.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Comparatively bad or unfavorable: Refers to being of lower quality or condition than another.
  • Example: "This plan is worse than the previous one."
• More severe or intense: Describes a heightened negative condition.
  • Example: "The weather became worse as the day went on."

Adverb

• To a greater extent in a bad way: Describes an increase in severity or negativity.
  • Example: "She sings worse than her sister."

Noun

• An unfavorable or less desirable condition: Refers to a negative outcome or state.
  • Example: "Expect the worse and prepare accordingly."