an even less

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an even less" is not correct in standard written English.
It is typically used in comparative contexts, but it should be followed by a noun or a phrase that can be compared. Example: "This option offers an even less appealing choice than the previous one."

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Ball is an even less plausible revolutionary.

The Guardian - Books

They attempt the same on an even less friendly bull.

The Economist

The main bout proved an even less gruelling contest.

The New Yorker

The Extraordinaires is an even less traditional game.

Harvard Business Review

The assessment of outcomes offers an even less appealing picture.

The Guardian - Opinion

Or perhaps an even less popular monarch than George IV?

The Guardian - Arts

In Unsworth's novel, he cuts an even less charming figure.

The Guardian - Books

A new space race to the moon has an even less lofty goal: sightseeing.

The Economist

That team was led by Jose Baez, an even less savory character.

The New York Times

This is an even less well-known practice with strikingly Trumpian characteristics.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

There is an even less-detailed review of value, the automated valuation, which is performed by computers drawing information from a database.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure that "an even less" is followed by a noun or adjective that can be compared to something else. For instance, "an even less appealing option" is correct.

Common error

Avoid using "an even less" without specifying what is being compared or what quality is being diminished. For example, avoid saying just "an even less" and instead specify "an even less detailed explanation."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an even less" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It is used to indicate a further reduction in the degree of something. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase typically needs to be followed by a noun or adjective to complete the comparison.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an even less" is a comparative adjective phrase used to indicate a further reduction in something. Ludwig AI notes that it requires a following noun or adjective to complete the comparison. It is grammatically acceptable, though often used in contexts that compare two things. The phrase appears frequently in news, scientific, and business writing. Ensuring it's followed by a suitable noun or adjective is key to using it correctly. While generally versatile, it is crucial to use it in conjunction with a comparable element.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a smaller amount

Focuses on quantity, implying a reduction in size or extent.

a reduced quantity

Emphasizes the act of reducing the amount.

a lower level

Indicates a position or rank that is inferior.

a diminished degree

Highlights a weakening or lessening of intensity.

a weaker version

Implies a less potent or effective form.

a slighter extent

Suggests a marginal or insignificant difference.

a briefer period

Focuses on a shorter duration of time.

a minimal portion

Emphasizes the smallness of the amount.

a lighter touch

Highlights a more delicate or gentle approach.

a curtailed scope

Emphasizes the limitation or restriction of the area covered.

FAQs

How can I use "an even less" in a sentence?

Use "an even less" to compare something negatively to something else, indicating a further reduction in quality or quantity. For instance, "This proposal offers "an even less promising solution" than the previous one".

What's a good alternative to using "an even less"?

Consider alternatives like "a smaller", "a reduced", or "a diminished" depending on the specific context you're trying to convey. For example you can use "a smaller amount" or "a reduced quantity".

Is it correct to say "even less" without "an"?

While "even less" can be grammatically correct in certain contexts, using "an even less" typically requires a noun or adjective to follow, making it a more complete comparative phrase. For example, "even less time" versus "an even less desirable outcome".

What is the difference between "less" and "even less"?

"Less" indicates a smaller quantity or lower degree, while "even less" emphasizes a further reduction. "Even less" amplifies the comparison, suggesting a more significant decrease than just "less" would imply. For example, there is less water today than yesterday and "an even less amount" today than the previous day.