The comparative forms “more nimble” and “nimbler” both express a higher degree of agility or quickness. The choice between them often depends on factors such as sentence rhythm, stylistic preference, and the length of the adjective. For instance, one might say, “This dancer is nimbler than the other,” or “This dancer is more nimble than the other,” with both conveying the same basic meaning.
Understanding these comparative forms is beneficial for precise and effective communication. The existence of two valid options offers flexibility in writing and speaking, allowing for stylistic nuance. Grammatical discussions surrounding these choices often involve considerations of euphony and clarity, impacting the overall impact of the language used. The historical development of English grammar has shaped these alternative formations, with some preferring shorter, inflected forms like “nimbler” while others favor the more analytic construction “more nimble.”