a far less

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a far less" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare two things, indicating that one is significantly lower in degree or amount than the other. Example: "This new model is a far less expensive option compared to the previous version."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Roth is a far less dramatic presence.

The New York Times - Magazine

Ms. Murkowski has been a far less colorful political figure.

The New York Times

But it would also be a far less interesting place.

The Economist

Nicoletta has a far less elaborate gelato menu than Otto's.

The New York Times - Food

Doctors sent her home with a far less serious diagnosis.

The New York Times

And they have a far less cultish following.

The Economist

A far less likely situation involves losses by multiple teams.

The New York Times - Sports

After dark, the Village attracts a far less streamlined demographic.

The New Yorker

Medical liability is a far less potent issue.

The New York Times

George W. Bush vetoed a far less comprehensive bill.

The New York Times

It's a far less removed experience than usual.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a far less", ensure that the comparison is clear and that the difference is significant enough to warrant the emphasis. For example, "Investing in renewable energy is a far less risky venture than drilling for oil in unexplored regions."

Common error

Avoid using "a far less" when the difference is minimal or insignificant. It's best suited for situations where the contrast is substantial and noteworthy. For instance, instead of saying "This brand is a far less expensive than the other one" when they're only $1 apart, use "slightly less" or "marginally cheaper".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a far less" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun to indicate that it possesses a quality to a significantly lesser extent than something else. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a far less" is a grammatically sound and versatile way to indicate a significant difference in degree or amount. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. When using it, ensure the comparison is clear and the difference is substantial. Consider alternatives like "much less" or "significantly less" for variety. Avoid overusing it when the difference is minimal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

much less

This alternative is a more concise way to express the same comparison.

considerably less

This alternative emphasizes the notable difference in quantity or degree.

significantly less

This alternative highlights the importance or impact of the smaller amount.

appreciably less

This suggests that the difference is easily noticeable.

substantially less

This indicates a large difference in amount or degree.

markedly less

This alternative suggests that the change is easily observed or measured.

noticeably less

This indicates that the difference is apparent.

distinctly less

This highlights a clear and easily identifiable difference.

measurably less

This alternative focuses on the fact that the difference can be objectively quantified.

somewhat less

This alternative expresses a smaller degree of difference than the original phrase.

FAQs

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

Use "a far less" to compare two things, highlighting that one has a significantly lower degree of a particular quality. For instance, "Traveling by train is "a far less stressful" experience than driving."

What are some alternatives to "a far less"?

You can use alternatives like "much less", "considerably less", or "significantly less" to convey a similar meaning. For example, instead of "a far less complicated process", you could say "a much less complicated process".

Is it always appropriate to use "a far less" for comparison?

While grammatically correct, "a far less" is most effective when emphasizing a notable difference. For minor differences, consider using phrases like "slightly less" or "marginally smaller".

What's the difference between "a far less" and "a little less"?

"A far less" indicates a substantial difference, whereas "a little less" implies a smaller, less significant distinction. For example, "This car consumes "a far less fuel"" suggests a major improvement in fuel efficiency, while "This car consumes "a little less fuel"" indicates a minor improvement.