are less substantial

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are less substantial" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the significance or importance of two or more things, indicating that one is not as significant as the other. Example: "The arguments presented in the second paper are less substantial than those in the first."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Diagenetic contributions of lead are less substantial in cortical bone.

Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section B: Beam Interactions with Materials and Atoms

Interviews with Junior's surviving sons are less substantial but viscerally charged.

The New York Times - Arts

As with so many people, the more attractive scallops are less substantial and less deeply rewarding than the ugly ones.

The New York Times - Magazine

Of the desired 2m filings, many will be for "utility" or "design" patents, which are less substantial than "invention" patents.

The Economist

The two Vivaldi serenatas on Robert King's set for Hyperion are less substantial and considerably less interesting than L'Olimpiade, and never performed with the same energy and intensity that Alessandrini and his singers bring to the opera.

The Guardian - Music

On an uncertain day, to regulate my sons by Mother Nature's whims, I make it quite clear that some skulls are less substantial than apparent air, as, evidently, one empty cage verifies.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The official said there was less substantial evidence showing that other hijackers trained at the camps.

The New York Times

The political effect is expected to be less substantial than the financial one.

The New York Times - Tech

A Letter reports an important novel research result, but is less substantial than an Article.

Nature

(The second is less substantial and more grating than the first).

The New York Times - Arts

And any reimbursements can be less substantial than for in-person treatment.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing elements, ensure the context clearly identifies both items being compared using "are less substantial than" to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "are less substantial" without a specific comparison. Saying something "is less substantial" is vague; clarify what it is less substantial than to provide meaningful context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are less substantial" functions as a comparative descriptor. It indicates that the subject being described has a lower degree of significance, impact, or physical presence than something else. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in comparing the relative importance of different elements.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are less substantial" is a grammatically sound and frequently used comparative expression. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usefulness for indicating a reduced level of significance, impact, or materiality. Predominantly found in scientific and news-related contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse writing styles. When using this phrase, it's important to make clear the elements being compared, ensuring your message is precise and informative. Remember to consider the subtle differences between it and alternatives like "are not as significant" to select the best fit for your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are not as significant

Focuses on the relative importance or consequence.

are of lesser importance

Emphasizes a lower degree of relevance or value.

are not as critical

Highlights a reduced level of necessity or urgency.

are of reduced consequence

Stresses the limited impact or outcome.

are not as meaningful

Implies a lower degree of purpose or depth.

are of smaller magnitude

Indicates a smaller size, extent or effect.

are not as influential

Highlights a weaker power to affect something.

are of slighter build

Suggests a lighter or more delicate construction.

are not as weighty

Emphasizes a reduced seriousness or importance.

are of a lighter nature

Highlights a less serious or intense quality.

FAQs

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

Use "are less substantial" to compare the relative significance, impact, or materiality of two or more things. For example, "The benefits of the new policy "are less substantial" than initially anticipated".

What are some alternatives to "are less substantial"?

You can use alternatives like "are not as significant", "are of lesser importance", or "are not as critical" depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "are less substantial" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to indicate that something has a lower degree of impact, importance, or physical presence compared to something else. For instance, "His arguments "are less substantial" than hers in supporting the claim".

Is "are less substantial" formal or informal?

"Are less substantial" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. However, consider the tone of your writing and choose the most precise alternative if a more specific meaning is desired. For example you could replace it with phrases such as "are not as influential" or "are of reduced consequence".