a shorter one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a shorter one" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an object, idea, or concept that is less lengthy or smaller in size compared to another. Example: "I prefer the blue shirt, but I might choose a shorter one for the summer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Xinhua, China's official news agency, from which the other news media in China tend to take their cue, carried a long article on the two cabinet secretaries' speeches and a shorter one on the creation of the joint research center.

The New York Times

Body weight is modulated by interrelated systems that function on different temporalities, a shorter one modulating blood sugar levels and a slower one modulating adiposity.

BioSocieties

In the absence of shielding pigment two posterior nodal distances must be expected in the immature eye: one for light passing only through the curved cornea, and a shorter one for light passing through the cornea plus the crystalline lens.

Plosone

Also, loan rates are typically higher on longer loans, so this is another argument for choosing a shorter one.

Huffington Post

Mathews then turns a shorter one to deep fine leg.

The Guardian - Sport

Then he gets a shorter one that he smashes for four through midwicket.

The Guardian - Sport

There was a shorter one in this magazine about two years ago.

The New Yorker

He said the league would more likely seek a traditional long-term deal than a shorter one.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

The likes of Billy Bob Thornton, Maggie Gyllenhaal and Woody Harrelson, who probably wouldn't do a network series, will sign on for a shorter one-off.

Huffington Post

A shorter one-week trip, the Colonial Intracoastal Waterway tour, begins in Charleston and travels to ports including Beaufort, Savannah and Jekyll Island, Ga., and Cumberland Island, Fla., ending in Jacksonville, Fla.

The New York Times - Travel

Guests can also choose to take a shorter, one-hour lesson if they do not want a two-day clinic.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing options, using "a shorter one" is effective when the context already establishes what is being compared. Ensure clarity by specifying the unit of measure (e.g. "a shorter trip", "a shorter piece").

Common error

Avoid using "a shorter one" without a clear reference point. For example, instead of saying "I chose a shorter one", specify "I chose a shorter route" to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a shorter one" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, where 'shorter' is the comparative form of 'short'. This phrase typically refers to something that is reduced in length, duration, or size compared to something else already mentioned. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

42%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a shorter one" functions as a comparative, used to indicate a preference for something less lengthy or smaller. Ludwig AI analysis of numerous examples confirms its correct grammatical standing and usability across various contexts. Predominantly found in news and scientific publications, the phrase maintains a neutral tone, readily adaptable to professional settings. When employing "a shorter one", ensure a clear reference to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "a more concise version" or "a briefer alternative" can offer nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a more concise version

Focuses on brevity and reduction of unnecessary content.

a briefer alternative

Emphasizes the reduced duration or extent as a choice.

a more compact edition

Highlights a reduction in physical space or size.

a trimmed down variant

Implies removing excess to make something shorter.

a condensed form

Suggests compressing information or substance into less space.

a smaller version

Highlights reduced dimensions or physical size.

a curtailed iteration

Implies a version that has been cut short or reduced in scope.

a more abbreviated instance

Focuses on shortening the occurrence or representation of something.

a downsized model

Refers to a reduction in scale or capacity, particularly in manufactured items.

a less lengthy option

Directly indicates a reduction in length or duration as a choice.

FAQs

How can I use "a shorter one" in a sentence?

Use "a shorter one" when you're comparing something to something else and want to express that it's smaller in length, time, or size. For instance, "I preferred the longer movie, but my friend wanted "a shorter one"".

What are some alternatives to "a shorter one"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a more concise version", "a briefer alternative", or "a smaller version".

When is it appropriate to use "a shorter one" in writing?

It's suitable when the context makes clear what you are comparing. For example, if discussing loan terms, you can say, "Although the monthly payments are higher, I'd prefer "a shorter one" because I'll pay less interest overall".

Is "a shorter one" formal or informal?

The phrase "a shorter one" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the overall tone and subject matter.