a tad less

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tad less" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a small reduction in quantity, degree, or intensity. Example: "I would prefer my coffee a tad less sweet than usual."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Food

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Senate might even become just a tad less dysfunctional.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Bush story is, yes, a tad less dramatic.

The New York Times

I do wish Hurt would have tried to read it a tad less, well, method-y.

The New York Times - Books

The sour curry ($9) was hot, too, if a tad less scorching than the som tum.

The New York Times - Food

The steering seems a tad less connected than the 7's.

The New York Times

We liked the 2009 Schramsberg a tad less, yet it was fresh, lively and satisfying.

The New York Times - Food

This cloud-like wonder would have been even better with a tad less sugar.

The New York Times

It's a doppelganger to the Ultimo, with outplants that are a tad less obvious.

The New York Times - Style

"Important Things" could use a tad more of that bite and a tad less adorability.

The New York Times - Arts

Another reason is that it makes state-run lotteries a tad less exploitive.

The New York Times

If you do use Chinese celery, it's worth blanching it first to make it a tad less fibrous.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a tad less" to subtly soften criticism or to indicate a preference without being overly assertive. For example, "The coffee could use a tad less sugar" is more polite than "The coffee has too much sugar."

Common error

While "a tad less" is acceptable in many situations, avoid overusing it in formal writing or presentations where a more precise or professional tone is required. Opt for alternatives like "slightly less" or "marginally reduced" for a more polished effect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tad less" functions as an adverbial modifier, specifying the degree to which something is reduced or diminished. Ludwig examples show its use in modifying adjectives (e.g., "a tad less sweet") or adverbs, indicating a slight lessening of a quality or characteristic.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Food

20%

Sports

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a tad less" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to express a slight reduction or preference. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used in various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Food and Sports. While appropriate for neutral to informal settings, remember to use more precise alternatives in formal writing. Keep in mind to be less repetitive by using alternatives such as "slightly fewer", "a bit smaller" and "somewhat slighter".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slightly fewer

Indicates a minor reduction in number.

a bit smaller

Focuses on a small reduction in size.

somewhat slighter

Emphasizes the marginal difference.

marginally reduced

Highlights a minimal decrease.

barely diminished

Shows something is just about lessened

a little lighter

Suggests a minor decrease in weight or intensity.

scarcely lower

Emphasizes how the item is slightly lower.

hardly greater

Underlines that the other option barely surpasses.

minimally decreased

Highlights the decrease as very small.

fractionally smaller

Emphasizes that the dimension or amount is a tiny bit lower

FAQs

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

You can use "a tad less" to indicate a slight reduction in quantity, degree, or intensity. For example, "I would prefer my coffee "a tad less" sweet than usual" or "The steering seems "a tad less" connected than the 7's."

What are some alternatives to "a tad less"?

Alternatives to "a tad less" include "slightly fewer", "a bit smaller", or "somewhat slighter", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a tad less"?

"A tad less" is appropriate in informal to neutral contexts where you want to express a minor reduction or preference without being too direct. It's less suitable for highly formal or technical writing.

Is "a tad less" grammatically correct?

Yes, "a tad less" is grammatically correct and commonly used in spoken and written English to indicate a slight reduction. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples of its use in reputable sources.