a less awkward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a less awkward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the level of awkwardness between two or more situations, behaviors, or expressions. Example: "After practicing, I felt like I had become a less awkward speaker during presentations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

A less awkward title would be nice, too.

The New York Times

Mr. Spunt is an awkward drummer; Mr. Randall is a less awkward guitarist.

The New York Times - Arts

The "book machine robot" that prints out e-books in the Harvard Bookstore is in desperate need of a less awkward name.

The New Yorker

When cases of police abuse do reach the courts, acquittal or a light sentence most often ensues.In this section More than minerals Addled in Addis On to the polls Let's try a less awkward embrace What happened to reform?

The Economist

Unfortunately, the indelible ink used to mark voters poisoned a few returning officers.In this section More than minerals Addled in Addis On to the polls Let's try a less awkward embrace What happened to reform?

The Economist

Gratification costs the equivalent of three packs of Western-brand cigarettes.In this section More than minerals Addled in Addis On to the polls Let's try a less awkward embrace What happened to reform?

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

It can make an awkward silence a lot less awkward, like when you're in a terrible marriage or an elevator.

The New Yorker

Perhaps a less clumsy production, without the awkward scene changes and snail's pacing, would show the play in a more favourable light.

The Guardian

Dhar says "YC worked so hard to make sure all the investors were at Demo Day, and helped us connect with them in a fundraising environment" — a much less awkward experience than startups and investors cold-emailing each other.

TechCrunch

Combine that with rhetorical sympathy and awareness of your audience, and the situation gets a bit warmer, a bit less awkward.

Vice

We'll soon be caught in a new intersection, this time a little wiser, a little more mature, and a little less awkward, and hopefully we'll have the knowledge of our experiences to make the ride a little less bumpy.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, consider replacing "a less awkward" with more specific adjectives like "smoother", "more comfortable", or "more natural", depending on the context.

Common error

Avoid using "a less awkward" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for phrases that convey a sense of professionalism and precision, such as "more streamlined" or "more efficient".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a less awkward" functions as an adjectival modifier, typically used to describe a noun or situation that has been improved in terms of social ease or comfort. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a less awkward" is a versatile way to describe improvements in social situations or actions. As Ludwig AI validates, it's grammatically sound and commonly used, particularly in news and media. When writing, remember that while acceptable in many contexts, more formal settings might benefit from alternatives such as "more refined" or "more comfortable". To enhance clarity, consider swapping it with synonyms like "smoother" or "more natural", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a more comfortable

Focuses on enhancing comfort level instead of reducing awkwardness.

a smoother

Emphasizes ease and fluidity, rather than addressing awkwardness directly.

a more seamless

Highlights the effortless integration or transition, moving away from the concept of awkwardness.

a more graceful

Shifts the focus to elegance and poise, suggesting a refined approach.

a more natural

Highlights the authentic and unforced character, instead of reducing the discomfort.

a more relaxed

Suggests a reduction in tension and formality, moving away from awkwardness.

a more poised

Suggests a composed and self-assured manner, minimizing any potential for awkwardness.

a more refined

Highlights the sophistication and polish instead of reducing the discomfort.

a more elegant

Focuses on stylishness and grace, offering a different perspective than simply reducing awkwardness.

a more tactful

Emphasizes the sensitive handling of a situation, rather than reducing general awkwardness.

FAQs

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

You can use "a less awkward" to describe a situation, action, or interaction that has been improved to be more comfortable or natural. For example, "Practicing the presentation made the delivery "a less awkward" experience".

What are some alternatives to saying "a less awkward"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "more comfortable", "smoother", "more natural", or "more graceful".

Is it always appropriate to use the phrase "a less awkward"?

While generally acceptable, "a less awkward" might not be suitable for highly formal or professional contexts. In such cases, consider using more precise and sophisticated language.

How does "a less awkward" differ from "less awkward"?

"A less awkward" usually implies a comparison or a specific instance where something has become less awkward. "Less awkward", on the other hand, can be a more general statement about a situation or thing.