More so vs Moreso: What’s the Difference and How to Use Them Correctly?
“More so” and “moreso” sound identical, making them an example of homophones. But are they both grammatically correct?
In this post, we’ll explain the difference between “more so” and “moreso,” which one is accepted in standard English, and how to use the correct version in your writing. Plus, try a quick quiz to check your understanding!
What Does “More so” Mean?
“More so” is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase. It’s typically used to emphasize or clarify a part of a previous statement.
Examples:
- “He enjoys hiking, more so than running.”
- “She’s proud of her team’s effort, more so because they never gave up.”
What Does “Moreso” Mean?
“Moreso” is considered a nonstandard or incorrect spelling of “more so.” While it occasionally appears in informal writing or speech, it is not accepted by major dictionaries like Cambridge or Oxford.
Examples (not recommended):
- “She was moreso frustrated than angry.” ❌
- “He was moreso tired after the second day.” ❌
✅ Use “more so” instead!
Key Differences: More so vs Moreso
| Term | Type | Status | Correct Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| More so | Phrase | ✅ Accepted | “He is dedicated, more so than anyone else.” |
| Moreso | Misspelling | ❌ Not accepted | “She is moreso confident now.” ← incorrect |
Common Mistakes
- ❌ Writing “moreso” as a single word — it’s not standard English.
- ✅ Use “more so” as two words when making comparisons or emphasizing.
- 📚 “More so” works like a soft connector or intensifier in a sentence.
Easy Tricks to Remember
- More so = Two words = Correct
- Moreso = One word = ❌ Avoid
- 🧠 Tip: If you can pause between “more” and “so,” it should be two words!
Quick Practice Exercise
Choose the correct version to complete each sentence:
Bonus Resources
Conclusion
While “moreso” may appear in casual use, it’s not recognized by major dictionaries. Stick with “more so” — the grammatically correct and widely accepted form — and your writing will always look polished.
📲 Now you know the difference — share this tip and explore more homophones on AulaPlanet!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. They sound exactly the same, but only “more so” is considered grammatically correct.
It’s sometimes used informally, but it is not standard and should be avoided in formal writing.
Just remember: if you can say “more” and “so” separately, then they should also be written separately!
Leave a Reply