be less deep

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be less deep" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting that something should be made simpler or more straightforward, often in discussions about ideas, concepts, or emotional expressions. Example: "In our next meeting, let's try to be less deep and focus on practical solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Although the IMF hopes that the recession will be less deep than forecast, GDP is still expected to shrink by more than 3% this year.

The Economist

First is the impact on the markets: will investors fear that such a move heralds the breakdown of fiscal discipline, or rejoice that recession might be less deep?

The Economist

The winner-take-all conception gives up on the apparently very natural idea, which one would think that the unificationist would wish to endorse, that an explanation can provide less unification than some alternative, and hence be less deep or less good, but still qualify as somewhat explanatory.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The cuts its trade commissioner, Peter Mandelson, proposed in response were less deep, and their scope less wide.

The Economist

"Their reach across the Atlantic is less deep, and their Asian market lags far behind Delta and United," he said.

The New York Times

For people with eyeballs that are less deep than average, like Mr. Mulroy, this is a double blow.

The New York Times - Health

And Syria's sectarian divide is less deep than Iraq's, so it should be easier to persuade Sunnis to work with other sects.

The Economist

Recession in France was less deep than in Germany or Britain, and French GDP recovered to its pre-crisis level before Britain's did.

The Economist

The recent downturn was less deep than previously thought while annual growth proved stronger as the economy began to recover, according to revised official figures.

The Guardian - Business

Labour's serious problem is that no one will ever be able to prove whether what they did worked: if the recession is less deep, were these debts really necessary?

The Guardian - Opinion

"Although the downturn was less deep than previously estimated and subsequent growth stronger, it remains the case that the UK experienced the deepest recession since ONS records began in 1948 and the subsequent recovery has been unusually slow".

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using “be less deep” to critique an idea, ensure the critique is constructive, suggesting viable alternative approaches instead of simply dismissing the original idea.

Common error

Avoid using "be less deep" as an excuse for avoiding necessary complexity. Sometimes, depth and detail are crucial for thorough understanding and effective problem-solving.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be less deep" functions as a directive or suggestion, typically used to encourage simplification or a reduction in complexity. Ludwig examples show its use in contexts ranging from economic forecasts to personal interactions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be less deep" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that suggests simplification or a reduction in complexity. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business communication. When employing this phrase, ensure that the simplification doesn't sacrifice essential information or accuracy. While it can be effective in promoting clarity, it's crucial to deliver the suggestion constructively, avoiding any implication that someone's ideas are not valuable. Consider alternatives like "simplify" or "reduce complexity" based on the specific situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reduce complexity

Directly addresses the act of making something less intricate or involved.

simplify

Focuses on making something easier to understand or do, removing unnecessary complexity.

be more superficial

Focuses on the surface level, avoiding deeper analysis or engagement.

stay superficial

Similar to "be more superficial", but with a stronger emphasis on maintaining a surface-level approach.

be more shallow

Emphasizes a lack of depth, either literally or figuratively.

avoid detail

Suggests omitting intricate or specific information to keep things simple.

skim the surface

Highlights a lack of in-depth exploration or understanding.

cut to the chase

Focuses on getting directly to the point, avoiding unnecessary background or context.

gloss over

Implies a deliberate act of skipping over details or complexities.

keep it light

Advocates for a less serious or intense approach.

FAQs

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

You can use "be less deep" to suggest simplifying a complex idea or approach, for example: "In our next meeting, let's try to be less deep and focus on practical solutions."

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

Alternatives include "simplify", "reduce complexity", or "be more superficial", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to tell someone to "be less deep"?

It's appropriate when someone is overcomplicating a situation or idea, making it difficult to understand or implement. The goal is to encourage clarity and practicality.

Is there a negative connotation to telling someone to "be less deep"?

Yes, it can sometimes be perceived negatively if it implies that their thoughts or ideas are not valuable. Frame the suggestion as a way to improve clarity or efficiency, not to diminish their contribution.