How to Use 'Better' in a Sentence: A Comprehensive Guide

The word 'better' is versatile and can be used as an adjective, adverb, noun, or verb. In this article, we'll explore its various usages through examples that encompass how to structure sentences using 'better.'

The Comparative Form of 'Good'

'Better' is the comparative form of 'good,' used to compare two things or groups of things. For example:

Dogs are better pets than cats.

Team sports are better than individual sports.

When comparing three or more things, 'best' is used. For example:

Water sports are the best.

Usage of 'Better' in Different Forms

Adjective: Describing a Noun

When used as an adjective to describe a noun, 'better' is often used to express improvement in a situation or quality. For example:

I was sick but now I’m feeling better.

Adverb: Modifying a Verb

When used as an adverb, 'better' modifies a verb, similar to how adverbs modify verbs, such as 'quickly.' For example:

I can do this much better than you.

Noun: A Person, Place, Thing, or Idea

When used as a noun, 'better' refers to a comparison between two things or groups of things. For example:

He is the better of the two.

Verb: Action or Process

'Better' can also be used as a verb, specifically 'to improve' or 'to better.' For example:

I’ve made a lot of mistakes but I’m bettering myself for it.

Comparative Sentences Using 'Better'

The word 'better' is often used in comparative sentences to highlight differences or improvements. Here are some examples of this usage:

Anthony’s character is better than John’s character.

The roads of America are better than those of India.

Multiple Meanings of 'Better'

Dos and don’ts using 'better' can be categorized into several meanings:

Improvement over Time

For the better part of an hour, he was whining away his time. Here, 'better part' means 'greater than half.'

Improvement in State

I am feeling better after taking a nap. The use of 'better' here indicates an improvement in mental state.

Health Improvement

He was suffering from fever since August 29th but after taking the medicines he felt better. Here, 'better' refers to an improvement in his health condition.

Favorable Circumstances

In better circumstances, he would never have resorted to stealing. In this context, 'better circumstances' means 'favorable circumstances'—situations that are more beneficial or advantageous.

Effectiveness

This is a better solution to your problem. 'Better' here means 'more effective'

Improve Accuracy or Performance

They were trying to build a better machine. Here, 'better' refers to an improvement in accuracy or performance.

Comparison

You are a better writer than I am. In this usage, 'better' indicates superiority in a comparative context.

Progression

Her works keep on getting better and better. 'Better and better' conveys a continuous and progressive improvement.

Improving a Situation

The new teacher made a lot of changes most of which were for the better. Here, 'for the better' means 'improving a situation.'

Timing

It took them the majority of the campaign to come to that conclusion but better late than never. 'Better late than never' suggests it's better to do something or arrive late than not to do it or arrive at all.

Admonition

You’d better go home now before the rain starts. ‘You’d better’ is synonymous with 'you should.'

Adaptation

You would do better to bring the plants inside when the weather gets colder. 'Do better' here means it would be more wise or advantageous to take this action.

Preference

Why don’t you give her a call or better still, go and see her? 'Better still' means that the alternative choice would be more satisfactory.

Compliment

She is better-looking than her friend. 'Better-looking' is a way of saying she is more attractive.

Prosperity

Families will be better off under the new law. 'Better off' means in a more fortunate or prosperous condition.

Victory

You always get the better of me at chess. 'Get the better of' means to defeat or overcome someone.

Famous Quotes and Phrases Using 'Better'

Exploring how 'better' is used in famous quotes and phrases enriches our understanding of its practical applications:

God said, “Just build a better you.”

Better be alone than in bad company.

I do desire we may be better strangers.

It is better to give than to receive.

I hope this is a better answer for the above question.

Thanks. Cheers.