Is it okay to say "more, better"? This is what the Royal Spanish Academy says, and no one expected it.

Although many people automatically correct this expression, the RAE (Royal Academy of Spanish) has a position on “more is better” that surprises and generates debate in the world of language.
Saying "more is better" seems, at first glance, an obvious mistake. In schools, on social media, and in everyday conversations, there are plenty of people who immediately correct those who use it. But the RAE (Spanish Royal Academy), the highest authority in the field of the Spanish language, has a more nuanced view of this construction , and its explanation may leave lovers of writing and language speechless.
According to the RAE (Royal Spanish Academy), the expression "más mejor" (more better) is grammatically redundant , since "mejor" is already a comparative form of buen (good), and adding "más" to it is considered unnecessary. However, it does not classify it as incorrect in all contexts. This form can appear in spoken language emphatically or colloquially, as part of an expressive or emotional resource . In other words: it can be used, but it is not recommended in formal or academic contexts.
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The institution also clarifies that redundancy doesn't always imply incorrectness . In many cases, language relies on intensified or repetitive expressions to create impact or give greater emphasis. Phrases like "I saw it with my own eyes" or "go up" are redundant but accepted due to their widespread use. Similarly, "more is better" falls into a similar category, albeit with less social tolerance .
In the world of Spanish curiosities , these types of expressions generate passionate debates. On one side are those who defend the strict rule; on the other, those who accept popular expressions as part of the living richness of the language. And although the RAE suggests avoiding "more better," its position is not as categorical as many believe.
Nowadays, "more is better" frequently appears in songs, memes, social media, and everyday jokes. Its use clearly serves the purpose of generating humor, informality, or closeness . Therefore, although it's not recommended in formal writing , it can have a valid place in other, more relaxed contexts.
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The RAE (Royal Spanish Academy) , social usage, and the evolution of language make it clear that what matters is not always just correctness, but also intention. And that's where "more is better" finds its unexpected permission.
- Topics
- RAE
- Language
- Writing
- Curiosities
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