a less tough

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a less tough" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the toughness of two or more things, indicating that one is not as tough as the other. Example: "This material is a less tough alternative to the standard fabric we usually use."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It's one that is helping pave the way for a less tough ride for the industry, but there's a long way to go".

The Guardian - Business

The great success of that film, which was based on Mr. Hampton's stage adaptation of Choderlos de Laclos's classic 1782 novel "Les Liaisons Dangereuses" and which was rewarded with seven Oscar nominations (three wins), didn't, however, make "Chéri" a less tough nut to crack.

The New York Times

If a less tough cut had been used, this was sliced and eaten separately, often with oatcakes or bannocks.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

And does it get any less tough in terms of the films that you want to make?

The Guardian - Film

"The company is traditionally going to be a lot less tough than a bank," said Charles Elson, director of the Center for Corporate Governance at the University of Delaware.

The New York Times

To succeed over time, I suspect, Obama may need to deploy a little less tough sobriety and a little more of the redemptive lexicon of exceptionalism that has brought Americans together in their belief in Lincoln's "last best hope of earth".

The New York Times - Books

One thing that I realized is that discussing the effects of concussions and the reality of the situation doesn't make me less of a man, less tough, less loyal to the National Football League, [have] a less love for the game.

Huffington Post

However, the downside of introducing American tough guys in a Brit context is they inevitably make our tough guys look a bit less tough.

The Guardian - Film

However, maybe just a little less tough than other occupations".

The Guardian - Opinion

TH: It's gotten a little less tough in terms of raising the money.

The Guardian - Film

And I hope in the future we have a lot less tough times and we can enjoy it even more.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical properties, consider using "a less tough" to indicate reduced resistance or hardness. For instance, 'a less tough material' might be suitable for applications requiring flexibility.

Common error

In professional or academic contexts, overuse of "a less tough" may sound informal. Consider using more precise and sophisticated synonyms such as "milder", "gentler", or "less rigorous" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a less tough" primarily functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun by indicating a lower degree of toughness. Ludwig's examples confirm this, showcasing its use in describing materials or approaches that are not as difficult or resistant as others.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a less tough" is a grammatically sound phrase used to compare the relative toughness of two or more things. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. While not extremely frequent, the phrase is readily understood and can be effectively employed to describe reduced resistance, difficulty, or harshness. When writing, consider the nuance you wish to convey and, in more formal contexts, explore synonyms like "milder" or "gentler" to enhance precision and sophistication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a milder

Replaces 'tough' with a word suggesting gentleness or reduced intensity.

a gentler

Similar to 'milder', this suggests a more delicate or less forceful approach.

a softer

Implies a decrease in harshness or rigidity.

an easier

Shifts the focus to the reduction in difficulty.

a simpler

Suggests reduced complexity or effort required.

a less severe

Highlights a reduction in seriousness or intensity.

a more manageable

Focuses on the ease with which something can be handled or controlled.

a less demanding

Emphasizes the reduction in requirements or expectations.

a more forgiving

Implies greater leniency or tolerance.

a less rigorous

Replaces 'tough' with a word suggesting reduced strictness or thoroughness.

FAQs

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

You can use "a less tough" to describe something that is not as difficult, resistant, or harsh compared to something else. For example: "This approach is "a less tough" option for beginners."

What is a good alternative to "a less tough"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "a milder", "a gentler", or "an easier".

Is it grammatically correct to say "a less tough"?

Yes, "a less tough" is grammatically correct. It follows standard English grammar rules for comparative adjectives.

What's the difference between "a less tough" and "less tough"?

"A less tough" implies that something is one of many options, but not as tough. "Less tough" is a general comparison without necessarily implying options.