be less interesting than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be less interesting than" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when comparing the level of interest between two subjects or topics. Example: "The documentary was engaging, but the follow-up discussion was less interesting than I had anticipated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Each poem mustered all its resources to be less interesting than the other.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They will, sadly, be less interesting than in previous decades, as the census form has been radically shortened this time.

The Economist

What in the world could be less interesting than learning about lighting on his set and color enhancements making his brown hair appear red?

The New York Times - Sports

Then again, Abi Titmuss and Calum Best may simply be less interesting than Anthony, who once worked as a postman and declares: "I dance all the time and talk lots".

The Guardian

The clothes are likely to be less interesting than at the state dinner — no strapless golden dresses, plenty of dress uniforms — but the West Point speech, too, promises to involve a good deal of theatre.

The New Yorker

And you can't help thinking that a socialite who can afford to indulge her style might by nature be less interesting than those people who manage to fuel their sartorial fancies on a shoestring.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

For Wills, the nobility is less interesting than the cynicism.

The New Yorker

The music is less interesting than the cover art.

The New Yorker

But the particulars are less interesting than the fusion itself.

The New York Times - Arts

But the rapper is less interesting than the Bollysoul arrangements that underscore his vocals.

The Guardian - Music

Of course, the second question is less interesting than the films themselves.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be less interesting than", ensure you clearly establish what two subjects are being compared. This provides context and makes the comparison more meaningful for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "be less interesting than" without specifying what the comparison is being made to. For example, instead of saying "The movie was less interesting", specify "The movie was less interesting than the book."

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "be less interesting than" is to establish a comparative relationship between two subjects, indicating that one evokes less curiosity or engagement. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be less interesting than" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression for comparing the relative appeal of two subjects. As supported by Ludwig, it functions to establish a comparative relationship. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal writing. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity in your comparison to maximize its effectiveness. Remember to use alternatives such as "not as captivating as" or "less engaging than" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less engaging than

Replaces "interesting" with "engaging", focusing on the ability to hold attention.

not nearly as fascinating as

Adds emphasis using "nearly", highlighting the disparity in fascination.

not as captivating as

Uses "captivating" instead of "interesting", implying a stronger level of engagement.

duller than

Directly contrasts with excitement; implies boredom.

not as stimulating as

Emphasizes intellectual excitement rather than general interest.

overshadowed by

One thing is hidden or seems smaller because something else is more important.

pale in comparison to

Indicates a significant difference in quality or appeal, making one seem weak by contrast.

outshone by

Suggests one subject is overshadowed by the superior qualities of another.

second fiddle to

One is less important, or in a subservient position compared to the other.

not hold a candle to

Highlights how inferior one is to the other.

FAQs

How can I use "be less interesting than" in a sentence?

Use "be less interesting than" to compare the levels of interest between two subjects. For example, "The first half of the book was compelling, but the second half seemed to "be less interesting than" the beginning".

What are some alternatives to "be less interesting than"?

Some alternatives include phrases like "not as captivating as", "less engaging than", or "pale in comparison to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "be less interesting than" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "be less interesting than" when you want to express a direct comparison where one subject fails to capture attention or generate curiosity as effectively as another. Make sure you are being precise in what you are comparing.

Is "be less interesting than" a formal or informal phrase?

"Be less interesting than" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. Its neutrality makes it adaptable to various contexts without sounding overly casual or stiff.