become less of a

USAGE SUMMARY

"become less of a" is a grammatically correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It is usually used to describe a change in someone or something's identity or characteristics. Example: As she grew older, her fear of heights became less of a problem.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

That's become less of a feature.

The Guardian

It's become less of a thing.

The Guardian

They need to become less of a secret.

Independent

Carbon footprints become less of a concern, too.

The Guardian - Tech

Give someone pity and they become less of a person.

The Guardian - Music

She thinks if career breaks become less of a female exception, it helps women.

The New York Times

Even in Mr. Graham's home state, the topic has become less of a hot-button issue.

The New York Times

ReprintsSince those days, leisure has steadily become less of a luxury.

The Economist

In years to come such a scoreline might become less of a strange sight.

Independent

Rather, I was asking if you've become less of a controlling artist.

The Guardian - Music

Another important detail: Belarus relation to the Middle East have become less of a problem.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "become less of a", ensure that the comparison is clear and the context provides sufficient information about what is diminishing. For instance, instead of saying "The problem became less of a concern", specify what made it less concerning.

Common error

Avoid using "become less of a" in sentences that lack specific context. Saying something "became less of a thing" without explaining what 'thing' refers to can confuse readers. Be precise and provide context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "become less of a" functions as a transitional phrase indicating a change in state or characteristic. It suggests that something is diminishing in its intensity, significance, or impact. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

26%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "become less of a" is a versatile tool for expressing diminishing qualities or states. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely used. Predominantly found in "News & Media" and "Science", it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what is diminishing and providing adequate context. Alternatives like "diminish in significance" or "decline in prominence" can add subtle nuances to your writing. By understanding its function and purpose, you can effectively communicate gradual changes and evolving conditions using the phrase "become less of a".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

diminish in significance

Focuses on the reduction of importance or relevance.

decline in prominence

Emphasizes a decrease in visibility or status.

wane in influence

Highlights the lessening of power or persuasive effect.

fade in importance

Suggests a gradual loss of relevance.

lose its edge

Implies a reduction in effectiveness or sharpness.

recede in priority

Indicates a lowering of importance in a list or plan.

alleviate in intensity

Focuses on reducing the strength or severity of something.

ebb in strength

Describes a decrease in physical or emotional power.

de-escalate in magnitude

Emphasizes a reduction in size or scope.

attenuate in effect

Highlights a weakening of impact or consequence.

FAQs

How can I use "become less of a" in a sentence?

You can use "become less of a" to describe a decrease in the significance, intensity, or relevance of something. For example, "The risk has "become less of a threat"" or "He has "become less of a burden"".

What are some alternatives to "become less of a"?

Alternatives include phrases like "diminish in significance", "decline in prominence", or "fade in importance", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Which is correct, "become less of a problem" or "become a lesser problem"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "become less of a problem" is generally preferred for its natural flow and emphasis on the change in status. "become a lesser problem" is also correct but may sound slightly more formal or technical.

What's the difference between "become less of a" and "is no longer"?

"Become less of a" suggests a gradual decline or reduction, while "is no longer" implies a complete cessation or absence. For example, "The challenge has "become less of a obstacle"" indicates it still exists but is less significant, whereas "The challenge is no longer" means it has been completely resolved or removed.