be less substantial

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be less substantial" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that is perceived to have reduced importance, significance, or weight. Example: "In this context, the arguments presented seem to be less substantial than those made in previous discussions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

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

The New York Times - Tech

Anything less and the markets would now be sorely disappointed, but even these announcements may be less substantial than they first appear.

The Guardian - Business

Or could cybersecurity analysts be wrong, and the ties between the Bears and Russian government objectives be less substantial than they believe?

The Guardian - Tech

Growth is expected to continue as spending by consumers increases and job losses dwindle, but analysts say the gains will be less substantial now that the economy has come back from the brink.

The New York Times

Steven Fielding, professor of political history at the University of Nottingham, said the actual differences between the two main parties might be less substantial than their policy presentations suggested.

The New York Times

Since their Tuesday night jab backfired, the Romney campaign has tried to flesh a more substantive critique of Obama's foreign policy, but the actual differences seem to be less substantial than the posturing suggests.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

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

The New York Times - Arts

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

The New York Times

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

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

The entire online world is less substantial than a single piece of paint on one of Rembrandt's encrusted canvases.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be less substantial", ensure the comparison is clear. Specify what the subject is less substantial than to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "be less substantial" when the difference is negligible. Use weaker terms like "slightly smaller" or "marginally lighter" for minor variations to maintain accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be less substantial" functions primarily as a comparative descriptor. It indicates that one item or concept possesses a lower degree of substance, significance, or impact than another. Ludwig examples confirm this usage, illustrating the phrase's role in comparative statements.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be less substantial" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig. It's used to express that something is of lesser significance, size, or impact compared to something else. While its frequency is uncommon, it appears in diverse contexts such as news, science, and formal writing. When using this phrase, ensure you provide a clear comparison to avoid ambiguity. Furthermore, consider whether "be less substantial" accurately reflects the degree of difference you want to convey. Several alternative phrases exist, such as "be less significant", which may better suit your specific needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be less significant

Indicates a lower level of importance or consequence.

be less meaningful

Suggests a decrease in depth or value.

be of lesser importance

Focuses on the reduced significance or priority of something.

be of reduced impact

Emphasizes a weaker effect or influence.

be less weighty

Implies a reduction in seriousness or influence.

be of smaller size

Highlights a decrease in physical dimensions.

be slighter

Indicates a minimal or insignificant amount.

be weaker

Implies a lack of strength or effectiveness.

be more superficial

Highlights a lack of depth or thoroughness.

be more diluted

Suggests a reduction in concentration or intensity.

FAQs

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

You can use "be less substantial" to compare the significance, size, or impact of two things. For example, "The evidence presented in the second trial was less substantial than in the first."

What phrases are similar to "be less substantial"?

Alternatives include "be less significant", "be of lesser importance", or "be of smaller size", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "be less substantial" or "is less substantial"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "is less substantial" is used when referring to a specific subject in the present tense (e.g., "The evidence is less substantial"), while "be less substantial" is used in hypothetical or general statements (e.g., "It may be less substantial than it appears").

What's the difference between "be less substantial" and "be less substantive"?

"Substantial" refers to the size, amount, or importance of something, whereas "substantive" refers to the content or essence of something. Thus, "be less substantial" suggests a smaller quantity or weaker impact, while "be less substantive" indicates a lack of meaningful content.