Less distant

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Less distant" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not as far away in terms of physical distance, emotional connection, or time. Example: "After our conversation, I felt less distant from my colleagues and more connected to the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Formal & Business

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Reference

Social Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And the Speaker should be less distant.

The Guardian

"He comes across as more human, more authentic, less distant than Gabriel," he said.

The Washington Post

But his first words could hardly have been less grand, or less distant.

The Guardian

But power generation companies and their investors have their eyes on less distant horizons.

The New York Times

Three of them appeared to be similar to ordinary, less distant quasars.

The Economist

Ask Jeeves, for one, has become a slightly less distant third after improving its technology.

The Economist

Home is something that seems less distant and more real every day.

The New York Times

It was found that the more distant clusters contained about 20 times more AGN than the less distant sample.

Harvard University

So I think they're really trying to look at getting a sort of less distant relationship with the Dutch.

The Guardian

His images appear to memorialize some more or less distant past when manliness was an unquestionable virtue.

The New York Times - Arts

To postulate a difference of nature in the simple bodies according as they are more or less distant from their proper places is unreasonable.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing relationships, consider whether "less distant" accurately conveys the intended improvement. Alternatives like "closer" or "more approachable" might be more suitable depending on the context.

Common error

While "less distant" is grammatically sound, it can sometimes sound overly formal or stilted in casual conversation. In informal settings, consider using simpler alternatives like "closer" or "nearer" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less distant" primarily functions as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies nouns by indicating a comparative reduction in distance, whether physical, temporal, or emotional, or metaphorical. Ludwig AI shows the phrase in contexts ranging from geographical proximity to emotional connection.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

29%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less distant" is a versatile adjective phrase used to describe a reduction in separation across various contexts – physical, temporal, and emotional. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. While it's generally neutral in tone, simpler alternatives like "closer" may be more suitable for informal settings. It appears frequently in News & Media, Science, and Academic sources, making it a valuable term for a range of writing purposes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Closer

Indicates a shorter physical distance or a stronger emotional connection.

Nearer

Similar to "closer", but often used for physical proximity.

Not as far

A simpler, more direct way of expressing reduced distance.

Less remote

Highlights a reduction in remoteness or isolation.

More approachable

Focuses on the ease of interaction or communication.

More connected

Emphasizes a stronger link or relationship.

More accessible

Emphasizes ease of reach, whether physical or metaphorical.

More proximate

A more formal synonym for "nearer", often used in academic contexts.

More intimate

Suggests a deeper, more personal relationship.

More immediate

Implies a shorter time frame or a more direct connection.

FAQs

What does "less distant" mean?

"Less distant" means not as far away, either physically, emotionally, or in time. It indicates a reduction in separation or remoteness.

What can I say instead of "less distant"?

You can use alternatives like "closer", "nearer", "more accessible", or "more connected" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "less distant"?

"Less distant" is appropriate in formal or neutral contexts when you want to describe a reduction in distance or separation. It can be used for physical locations, relationships, or time frames.

How is "less distant" different from "closer"?

While both imply reduced separation, "closer" often suggests a stronger emotional bond or physical proximity. "Less distant" is generally more neutral and can apply to a wider range of contexts, including time and abstract concepts.