be less comprehensive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be less comprehensive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting that something should be simplified or made less detailed. Example: "In order to make the report more accessible, we should aim to be less comprehensive in our explanations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

The curbs on her ability to shop in London may be less comprehensive than previously thought.

The Guardian

But on the downside, the insured care would be less comprehensive than under current definitions of Obamacare's mandate.

The New York Times

There is a huge temptation to be less comprehensive in your planning, to take on fewer bold ideas, if you don't know what the future holds," Weller said.

The Guardian

Some responses to queries for books, for instance, came from individual booksellers and turned out to be less comprehensive than if I had simply used a specialized search engine like Bookfinder.com to look for the same material.

The New York Times - Tech

Industry officials say ship owners who can still legally trade with Iran will be hard-pressed to find sufficient alternative insurance, which is also likely to be less comprehensive.

The New York Times

The state has pointed Mr. Kewley toward other options, but the coverage would be less comprehensive and the premiums far higher than the $36 he had been paying each month.

The New York Times - Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

But as a result, Google Shopping's listings are less comprehensive than they were before.

The New York Times

The rail system is less comprehensive, but is part of the InterRail network and offers some spectacular journeys.

The Guardian - Travel

But the search function and graphics were less comprehensive and more cramped, and the software was slower than Google Maps.

The New York Times - Tech

But it's less comprehensive, though perhaps more intimate, like stepping into a rich girlfriend's boudoir.

The New York Times

Though efficient, the system is less comprehensive than that of São Paulo or major metropolitan areas in the Northern Hemisphere.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In situations where time is limited, "be less comprehensive" by prioritizing the most critical information and omitting less essential details.

Common error

Avoid using "be less comprehensive" as an excuse for neglecting vital information. Ensure that the essence of the topic remains intact and that no critical aspects are overlooked in the pursuit of brevity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be less comprehensive" functions as a modifier, indicating a deliberate reduction in scope or detail. It's used to suggest simplifying information or making it more accessible, as seen in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be less comprehensive" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that suggests a reduction in scope or detail. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's often used to advocate for clarity or manageability. While not exceedingly common, it appears in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, spanning contexts such as news, science, and occasionally business. When considering alternatives, options like "lack detail" or "be more concise" can provide similar meanings, with subtle differences in emphasis. However, avoid over-simplification, as it could risk losing crucial information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be less exhaustive

Emphasizes the omission of certain elements or aspects, rather than the whole picture.

not go into as much depth

Directly addresses the level of detail, indicating a shallower exploration of the subject.

lack detail

Focuses on the absence of specific information, rather than the overall scope.

cut down on detail

Focuses on removing specific details for the sake of succinctness.

be more concise

Implies brevity and efficient use of language, not necessarily a reduction in scope.

offer an abridged version

Indicates a shortened version of the original material.

offer a simplified version

Highlights the act of simplification, suggesting a deliberate choice to present a less complex view.

provide a briefer overview

Highlights a summary approach, suggesting a quick and less detailed presentation.

be more high-level

Suggests a focus on the main points rather than granular detail.

simplify the content

Suggests to make the content less complicated.

FAQs

How can I use "be less comprehensive" in a sentence?

You might say, "To make this report more accessible, we should "be less comprehensive" in our data analysis."

What is a good alternative to "be less comprehensive"?

Consider using phrases like "lack detail", "be more concise", or "not go into as much depth" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to "be less comprehensive"?

It's suitable when the goal is to provide a summary or overview, or when catering to an audience that may not require or benefit from extensive detail.

What does it mean to "be less comprehensive"?

It means to reduce the amount of detail or scope of something, often to make it more manageable or easier to understand.