Rarer

Rarer (comparative adjective of 'rare') describes something that is not frequently encountered, possessed, or experienced; something that exists in small numbers or is hard to find. It implies a level of scarcity or exclusivity. It can refer to objects, events, qualities, or even behaviors. The degree of rarity varies; something can be slightly rarer or extremely rarer, signifying a spectrum of scarcity. This term is used in diverse contexts from collecting items to describing natural phenomena.

Rarer meaning with examples

• Antique book collectors often seek first editions, as they are significantly rarer than later printings. The unique cover art and historical context of these editions makes them particularly desirable, driving up their value. These historical artefacts are seen as highly prized items, attracting interest from various museums and private collectors, further emphasizing their scarcity within the market.
• The sighting of a white tiger in the wild is rarer than seeing a common Bengal tiger. Their unique coloration, caused by a recessive gene, makes them an uncommon sight. Due to habitat loss and poaching, the white tiger's rarity highlights the importance of conservation efforts. This makes it a significant symbol in biodiversity.
• In some societies, true acts of selfless kindness seem rarer than acts of self-interest. Despite the human capacity for compassion, the prevalence of these acts appears limited. This may be down to cultural shifts, or simply that selfish acts are given more publicity; however, selfless acts are often viewed as valuable because of their scarcity.
• The discovery of a new species of mammal is rarer than that of a plant, due to the relatively small number of unexplored mammalian habitats left. Scientists working in the field invest a huge amount of time into the search. New finds often make international headlines, and serve as an urgent reminder of the importance of protecting our diverse ecosystems.