[Grammar] simpler or more simple

[Will17]

Hello there!

I can't find a clear answer.... Do we say "more simple" or "simpler", please?

Thank you very much
W

 

[5jj]

I can't find a clear answer.... Do we say "more simple" or "simpler", please?

Simpler is commoner/more common.

The reason you cannot find a clear answer is that there isn't one. Among two-syllable adjectives with an unstressed second syllable, some (such as those ending in -y) almost always have -(i)er.
Others, (such as clever and simple) normally have -er.
Yet others, (such as boring and sinful) never have -er.

 

[Will17]

quieter, fairer

Hello!

Do we say "more fair" or "fairer", "more quiet" or "quieter"?

Thank you
Will

 

[5jj]

Re: quieter, fairer

Do we say "more fair" or "fairer", "more quiet" or "quieter"?

All are acceptable.

 

[SoothingDave]

Simpler is commoner/more common.

The reason you cannot find a clear answer is that there isn't one. Among two-syllable adjectives with an unstressed second syllable, some (such as those ending in -y) almost always have -(i)er.
Others, (such as clever and simple) normally have -er.
Yet others, (such as boring and sinful) never have -er.

I would say "simpler" but not "commoner."

"Commoner" makes me think of a "non-noble" person (e.g. House of Commons)