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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
a lean version of
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"a lean version of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to indicate an updated or simplified version of something. For example: "We've developed a lean version of the software to reduce complexity for our users."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Academia
Alternative expressions(17)
a streamlined version of
a basic iteration of
a more concise rendition of
an abridged form of
a sleek version of
a skinny version of
a small version of
a sparse version of
a lightweight version of
a modest version of
a scrawny version of
a stylish version of
a thin version of
a dark version of
a stylized version of
a lite version of
a shadow of
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
2 human-written examples
The result is a lean version of similar collectible-card games, generously free to play (new packs can be purchased as an add-on) and delivered with Blizzard's usual weight and quality.
News & Media
According to Tuttle, the original plan was to release a lean version of the MindMeld app shortly after its TechCrunch Disrupt debut and to rapidly iterate after that.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
58 human-written examples
You're a leaner version of yourself".
News & Media
Anatomy & Physiology, Fourth Edition answers the demand for a leaner version of Elaine Marieb and Katja Hoehn's top-selling Human Anatomy & Physiology.
Academia
Of course, there was already an organization that looked a bit like a leaner version of the oversight council, yet it did nothing effective to prevent the recent crisis.
News & Media
So tender are the hand-cut noodles, so rich the chicken-bone broth, I could eat it every day for the rest of my life, as long as I could also have an order of mandoo, steamed pork dumplings that taste like a leaner version of Shanghai soup dumplings.
News & Media
MGM, they say, can be a leaner version of Viacom or Disney, filling captive media outlets with films from one of the richest libraries in the business.
News & Media
"Ning is the potential of what the Web can do". Andreessen now is a leaner version of his younger self.
News & Media
And anytime you forgo one dress for another because it's not as slimming, you're committing this same horrible crime of preferring a leaner version of yourself.
News & Media
Finding acceptance in England, they brought a hard, lean version of rockabilly back to the United States, where their caricature look made an impact during MTV's early days.
Encyclopedias
He and the rest of the 5by team launched a very lean version of the site at the Launch conference held this past March, and in the days that followed, 5by attracted thousands of visitors who stayed on the site for about 12 minutes.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using the phrase, ensure it's clear what the original version is and how the lean version differs (e.g., features removed, processes simplified).
Common error
Avoid using "a lean version of" to simply mean 'a different version'. The term 'lean' implies a specific type of improvement focused on efficiency and waste reduction, so it's important to accurately reflect that meaning.
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "a lean version of" functions as a noun modifier, specifically an adjective phrase. It describes a particular type or iteration of something, indicating that it has been simplified or optimized for efficiency. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness and usability of this phrase.
Frequent in
News & Media
50%
Academia
50%
Science
0%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "a lean version of" is used to describe something that has been simplified or optimized for efficiency, often by reducing complexity or removing unnecessary features. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. This expression is most frequently found in news and media, as well as academic contexts. It is important to use this phrase when you want to convey that a specific iteration has been made more efficient and streamlined, not simply to indicate a difference. Related phrases include "a streamlined version of" and "a simplified adaptation of", offering alternative ways to express similar concepts.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
a streamlined version of
Focuses on efficiency and reduced complexity through optimized design.
a simplified adaptation of
Highlights making something easier to understand or use.
a scaled-down model of
Emphasizes a reduction in size or scope, while maintaining essential features.
a basic iteration of
Suggests an early or fundamental stage in development, focusing on core functionalities.
a more concise rendition of
Focuses on brevity and reduced verbosity while maintaining the core content.
an abridged form of
Implies shortening by omitting parts, focusing on brevity.
a trimmed-down edition of
Highlights the removal of non-essential elements to achieve a more manageable format.
a bare-bones variant of
Emphasizes the stripped-down nature, reduced to the most essential components.
an economical interpretation of
Highlights efficiency and resourcefulness in the adaptation.
a compact presentation of
Focuses on conciseness and efficient use of space or time in conveying information.
FAQs
How can I use "a lean version of" in a sentence?
You can use "a lean version of" to describe a simplified or more efficient adaptation of something. For example, "The company released "a lean version of" its software to better serve mobile users".
What is a semantically similar phrase to "a lean version of"?
Similar phrases include "a streamlined version of", "a simplified adaptation of", or "a scaled-down model of", all suggesting a more efficient or basic form.
When is it appropriate to use "a lean version of" instead of "a different version of"?
"A lean version of" is appropriate when the modification specifically aims to reduce waste, improve efficiency, or simplify processes. "A different version of" is more general and doesn't necessarily imply these improvements.
What are some common characteristics of something described as "a lean version of"?
Common characteristics include reduced complexity, improved efficiency, fewer features, and a focus on essential functionality. The goal is often to eliminate unnecessary elements while retaining core value.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested