busier

Busier is the comparative form of the English adjective busy. It is used to compare two or more things in terms of activity, occupancy, or involvement.

Etymology and history: Busy comes from Old English bysig, meaning occupied or engaged. The modern comparative form busier was developed by adding the standard suffix -er to the adjective in Middle English, following the typical patterns of Germanic languages.

Usage: In standard English, busier is used for people, places, times, and activities to express a greater level of busyness. The corresponding superlative is busiest. While some speakers occasionally say “more busy,” this form is generally avoided in formal writing in favor of busier.

Examples: The morning commute is busier than usual. The city is busier during the holidays. She has become busier since starting the new project.

Related terms and nuances: Busier is a straightforward comparative; it typically appears in constructions such as “busier than,” “busier than ever,” or “busier than usual.” For broader or different nuances, writers may choose synonyms like more hectic or more active, depending on context.