Comparison of Adjectives -- Page 5

Irregular Comparison of Adjective Some adjectives are compared irregularly. The forms for the comparative degree and the superlative degree usually show a marked change in the form of the word; for example, many, more, most. You should be familiar with these changes in order to use the correct forms for the comparative and superlative degrees.

Positive	Comparative	Superlative
bad, evil, ill far far good, well little many much out	worse further farther better less more more outer	worst furthest farthest best least most most outmost, or outermost

Farther refers to distance or remoteness in space. Further refers to remoteness in time, to degree, extent or quality. It is used to express the idea of something more or additional. The distinctions between farther and further are passing out of use. Our language changes through misuse. If enough people use it incorrectly it often becomes the norm.

The store is farther than I thought. (distance in space) I will give you further instructions tomorrow. (additional instructions)

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