are substantially less

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are substantially less" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare quantities, qualities, or values that are significantly lower than another reference point. Example: "The costs of the new model are substantially less than those of the previous version, making it a more attractive option for consumers."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"To me, the uncertainties are substantially less than there were last time," he said.

The New York Times

Tasers and stun guns, while plainly dangerous, are substantially less dangerous than handguns.

The Washington Post

Generic drugs have the same active ingredients as brand-name medications, but generics are substantially less expensive.

Harvard University

Relative to White patients, clinical interactions between Black patients and nonblack physicians are substantially less productive and have poorer outcomes.

University of California, Berkeley

"Pregnancy rates are substantially less in Europe than in the U.S. and have been for 10 years.

The New York Times

These same materials, however, function poorly when penetrating more inelastic materials like rawhide, and they are substantially less durable.

Journal of Archaeological Science

Heat losses are substantially less significant for cases in which the turbulent flame brush is sufficiently separated from the GMLI.

Combustion and Flame

The azido nitrogen atoms of DMAZ are substantially less reactive to receive proton than the amino nitrogen.

Combustion and Flame

For a truck in the leeward lane, the corresponding moments are substantially less, at 82 and 154 kN m, respectively.

Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics

The tests showed, though, that the new phones are substantially less strong than 2012's iPhone 5, whose body is also used in 2013's iPhone 5S.

The Guardian - Tech

Tickets, as well as peanuts, popcorn and hot dogs, are substantially less expensive in the minors than in the big leagues.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are substantially less", ensure the comparison is clear and the difference is significant enough to warrant the emphasis. Quantify the difference whenever possible to provide more context.

Common error

Avoid using "are substantially less" when the actual difference is marginal or insignificant. Using it for minor variations can weaken your argument and reduce credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are substantially less" functions as a comparative, indicating that something is significantly smaller or lower in degree, amount, or intensity compared to something else. Ludwig AI provides several examples demonstrating this usage across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

31%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are substantially less" is a grammatically correct and frequently used comparative expression that indicates a significant difference or reduction. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its prevalence across various domains, including science, news, and academia. While versatile, it's important to ensure the difference being described is genuinely substantial to avoid weakening the impact. Alternatives like "are significantly smaller" or "are markedly reduced" can be used depending on the context. Remember to use the phrase accurately to highlight a notable disparity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are significantly smaller

Focuses on a reduction in size or amount, emphasizing a notable difference.

are substantially curtailed

Implies a restriction or reduction, often with a focus on limiting something.

are markedly reduced

Emphasizes a noticeable decrease, suggesting a clear and distinct change.

are significantly limited

Focuses on imposing limitations or restrictions, emphasizing a controlled reduction.

are considerably fewer

Highlights a smaller quantity or number, implying a significant reduction.

are demonstrably smaller

Focuses on presenting evidence or proof of the reduction, highlighting an observable difference.

are noticeably diminished

Focuses on a reduction that is easily observed or perceived.

are appreciably lighter

Implies a reduction in weight or burden, suggesting a tangible improvement.

are proportionally smaller

Emphasizes the relative reduction in comparison to a standard or expectation.

are meaningfully curtailed

Highlights a deliberate reduction or limitation, often with a specific purpose.

FAQs

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

Use "are substantially less" to show a significant difference in quantity, quality, or value between two things. For example: "The costs of generics are substantially less than brand-name medications."

What is a good alternative to "are substantially less"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "are significantly smaller", "are markedly reduced", or "are considerably fewer".

When is it appropriate to use "are substantially less" instead of "are slightly less"?

"Are substantially less" indicates a notable and important difference, while "are slightly less" suggests a minor variation. Choose "are substantially less" when the distinction is significant enough to impact decision-making or understanding.

Is "are substantially less" formal or informal?

"Are substantially less" is appropriate for both formal and neutral contexts. The level of formality will depend more on the surrounding vocabulary and overall tone of the writing.