are less encouraged

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are less encouraged" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a certain action or behavior is not as strongly supported or promoted compared to others. Example: "In this program, participants who do not meet the criteria for funding are less encouraged to apply."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

I think women are less encouraged and less supported.

The Guardian

Other studies found that girls are less encouraged to partake in mathematics/science related activities than boys and parents perceive boys as more competent in mathematics than girls as well as perceiving mathematics as a male subject (e.g., Eccles[Parsons] et al. 1983).

Large-scale Assessments in Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The details, however, are less encouraging.

The Economist

England and Wales are less encouraging.

The Guardian

The organisational changes she is making are less encouraging.

The Guardian - Opinion

The truth is that these elements can't be separated from other trends that are less encouraging.

The New Yorker

For workers who are hoping for pay increases in their current jobs, instead of new jobs as blackjack dealers, nurses or Wall Street traders, the trends are less encouraging.

The New York Times

Our other findings, however, are less encouraging.

British Medical Journal

However, for certain other groups, the results are less encouraging.

British Journal of Cancer

Nepal has made substantial progress in reducing under-five mortality and is on track to achieve Millennium Development Goal 4, but advances in neonatal health are less encouraging.

BMC Public Health

Data from observational studies provide inconsistent evidence for a protective role of dietary antioxidants [ 8- 10] and results from randomised controlled trials of nutritional interventions are less encouraging.

BMC Public Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are less encouraged", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being encouraged, to provide a balanced perspective.

Common error

Avoid using "are less encouraged" when the situation involves active opposition or discouragement. Instead, opt for stronger terms like "discouraged" or "opposed" to accurately reflect the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are less encouraged" functions as a passive construction indicating a reduced level of support or promotion. Ludwig shows examples in news articles and scientific publications.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are less encouraged" is a grammatically sound phrase used to convey a diminished level of support or promotion. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. Although grammatically correct, it's relatively rare. When writing, consider whether stronger terms like "discouraged" are more appropriate if active opposition is involved. Reputable sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian use this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

receive less support

Focuses on the support aspect, rather than direct encouragement.

are not as promoted

Highlights the lack of promotion, implying fewer active efforts to advance something.

are not as supported

Emphasizes a weaker support system, potentially including resources and assistance.

are less likely to be advocated

Highlights the absence of active championing or endorsement.

face discouragement

Suggests active opposition or dissuasion, rather than just a lack of encouragement.

are given fewer incentives

Focuses on the reduction of incentives, implying a practical disadvantage.

aren't given as much impetus

Signifies diminished momentum or drive behind something.

are disincentivized

Highlights a deliberate measure to discourage certain actions.

are not incentivized

Emphasizes the lack of positive motivation or rewards.

are not widely endorsed

Indicates a lack of public or official approval.

FAQs

How can I use "are less encouraged" in a sentence?

You can use "are less encouraged" to indicate that certain behaviors or actions receive less support compared to others. For example, "Students who don't meet the requirements "are less encouraged" to apply for the scholarship".

What are some alternatives to "are less encouraged"?

Alternatives include "receive less support", "are not as promoted", or "are not as supported". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "are less encouraged"?

Yes, "are less encouraged" is grammatically correct. It follows standard English grammar rules and is used in various contexts, as shown by Ludwig.

What is the difference between "are less encouraged" and "are discouraged"?

"Are less encouraged" implies a lack of active promotion or support, while "are discouraged" suggests active opposition or dissuasion. Discouragement is a stronger, more negative term.