Less obviously

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Less obviously" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a point or idea that is not immediately apparent or is more subtle than what has been previously mentioned. Example: "While the benefits of exercise are well-known, less obviously, it can also improve mental health and cognitive function."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Less obviously, each in effect turns into the other.

The Economist

Less obviously, some countries even imposed language on themselves in a sort of self-colonisation.

The Economist

Less obviously, but importantly, there is evidence of a similar trend in some service industries.

The Economist

Less obviously, she may benefit from pockets of rage and resignation.

The Economist

Less obviously, but just as racially charged, is the assault on public employees.

The New York Times

Less obviously Cook has not had to contrive anything special in this series.

The Guardian - Sport

Less obviously, she finds fairly credible roles for young women within the gang structure.

The Guardian

Less obviously, oil producers deplete their reserves every time they pump out a barrel of oil.

The New York Times

Less obviously: the financings look different.

TechCrunch

Less obviously are some factors we use to penalize spammers.

TechCrunch

Less obviously, many birders get a virile competitive charge out of the sport.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "less obviously", ensure the context provides enough clues or supporting information for the reader to eventually grasp the subtle point you are making.

Common error

Avoid using "less obviously" in situations where the point is already quite clear. Overusing it can make your writing sound convoluted or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The adverbial phrase "less obviously" functions as a sentence modifier, qualifying the verb or clause it precedes. It introduces an idea, observation, or implication that is not immediately apparent and requires further consideration. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in introducing subtle or non-straightforward points.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less obviously" is a grammatically sound adverbial phrase used to introduce points that are not immediately apparent or require deeper analysis. As Ludwig AI confirms, its purpose is to signal subtlety and invite the reader to consider nuanced aspects of a topic. It is commonly found in news media and scientific contexts, reflecting a neutral to formal register. While versatile, it should be used judiciously to avoid sounding pretentious in simpler contexts. Related phrases include "not so evidently" and "in a more subtle way", offering alternative ways to express nuanced ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Not so evidently

Emphasizes a lack of clear or immediate visibility; implies that something is harder to notice or understand.

Not as plainly

Highlights a reduced degree of clarity or directness, suggesting a more nuanced or subtle understanding is required.

Not as clearly

Focuses on the diminished clarity, indicating that the point or aspect is somewhat obscured or not straightforward.

In a more subtle way

Shifts the focus to the subtlety of the action or characteristic, emphasizing its delicate or understated nature.

Less conspicuously

Underscores the reduced visibility or noticeability, implying a deliberate effort to avoid being easily seen or recognized.

Less apparently

Similar to the original phrase, but places slightly more emphasis on the surface level versus deeper implications.

On closer inspection

Suggests that additional examination is required to uncover the point, directing the listener to investigate further.

Upon deeper analysis

Indicates that understanding requires more than a surface-level assessment, implying analytical effort.

What's less known

Draws attention to information that is not widely recognized or acknowledged, signaling an unveiling of hidden facts.

It's easy to miss

Highlights how easily something can be overlooked, emphasizing its subtlety or the simplicity with which it is concealed.

FAQs

How can I use "less obviously" in a sentence?

Use "less obviously" to introduce a point that is not immediately apparent or is a subtle nuance of a larger topic. For example, "While exercise improves physical health, "less obviously", it also boosts mental well-being."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "less obviously"?

Alternatives to "less obviously" include phrases like "not so evidently", "not as plainly", or "in a more subtle way", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to use "less obviously"?

Yes, "less obviously" is grammatically correct and functions as an adverbial phrase. It is used to modify a verb or adjective, indicating the manner in which something is done or perceived.

What's the difference between "less obviously" and "obviously"?

"Obviously" indicates something is easily perceived or understood, while "less obviously" suggests the opposite—that something is not immediately clear and requires more thought or analysis to recognize.