apparently less

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apparently less" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something seems to be of a lower degree or amount based on observation or evidence. Example: "The new model is apparently less efficient than the previous version, according to the latest tests."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Our readers are apparently less so.

The New Yorker

Elsewhere the process is apparently less formal and, particularly for grandiose projects, less individualistic.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Being apparently less proud of the relationship was a warning sign to some.

Independent

Taking them out is apparently less expensive than the cost of retaining and maintaining them.

The Guardian

Strahan phoned Barber and their exchange was apparently less than amiable.

The New York Times - Sports

The quick delivery of the footage -- apparently less than 24 hours after the mission -- drew praise.

The New York Times

Her family are apparently less than happy with her portrayal in the film.

The Guardian - Film

3. Though extravagant with her wardrobe and jewelry, Guggenheim was apparently less so with foodstuffs.

The New York Times - Magazine

Mr. Buchanan was grateful for an apparently less obstructed path to the nomination.

The New York Times

Apparently less urgent for the Coalition is how it might reach any target.

The Guardian

Apparently, less than you'd expect, considering the passion of Radiohead fans.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "apparently less", ensure that you are indicating a perception or observation, not a definitively proven fact. For definitive statements, use phrases like "demonstrably less" or "quantifiably less".

Common error

Avoid using "apparently less" when you have concrete data. This phrase is best suited for situations where you're conveying an impression or observation, not a hard fact. Using it interchangeably can weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apparently less" functions as an adverbial modifier phrase. It qualifies an adjective, verb, or another adverb, indicating a perceived or observed reduction in degree or amount. Ludwig shows its usage in contexts where subjective assessment is involved.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "apparently less" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves to indicate a perceived or observed reduction in something. According to Ludwig, it is commonly found in news and scientific contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. The phrase is best used when conveying an impression rather than a definitive statement, and care should be taken to avoid misusing it as a substitute for concrete data. Alternatives such as "seemingly fewer" or "noticeably reduced" can be used to fine-tune the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seemingly fewer

Emphasizes a perceived lower quantity or number, altering the focus from degree to quantity.

ostensibly diminished

Suggests a decrease that is outwardly apparent but may not be entirely genuine.

noticeably reduced

Highlights that the reduction is easily observed or noticeable.

visibly decreased

Focuses on the visual aspect of the reduction, making it clear that it can be seen.

evidently smaller

Indicates that something is clearly or obviously smaller in size or amount.

plainly slighter

Emphasizes the obvious and minor nature of the reduction.

markedly lower

Highlights a significant or distinct reduction in level or degree.

reportedly decreased

Conveys that the decrease is based on reports or information from others, adding a layer of indirectness.

allegedly smaller

Suggests that the smaller size or amount is claimed but not yet proven.

supposedly reduced

Implies doubt or skepticism about the reduction, indicating it might not be as significant as claimed.

FAQs

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

You can use "apparently less" to indicate something seems to be of a lower degree or amount based on observation. For example: "The new model is "apparently less" efficient than the previous version, according to the latest tests."

What are some alternatives to "apparently less"?

Alternatives include "seemingly fewer", "ostensibly diminished", or "noticeably reduced", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to use "apparently less" in formal writing?

Yes, "apparently less" is suitable for formal writing when used to indicate a perception or observation. However, ensure that your claim is supported by evidence, even if it's not definitive.

What's the difference between "apparently less" and "demonstrably less"?

"Apparently less" suggests an observation or perception, while "demonstrably less" indicates that something has been proven to be less through evidence or data. Choose the phrase that best reflects the level of certainty in your statement.