but less

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but less" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a comparison where one thing is to a lesser degree than another. Example: "I enjoy hiking, but less than I enjoy swimming."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But "less" is relative.

The New York Times

But less relevant?

The New York Times

But less familiar faces await.

The New York Times

But less sexual".

The Guardian - Tech

But less so now.

The New York Times - Arts

But less tanned.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But less than half has been spent.

The Economist

That still happens, but less and less.

The New York Times

"Precise, but less heartful," Lee agreed.

The New Yorker

Seth was shy, too, but less aloof.

The New Yorker

Yes, but less than you think".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but less", ensure the comparison is clear and that the context provides a basis for understanding what is being reduced or lessened. For example, instead of saying "The work was good, but less," specify what aspect was less: "The work was good, but less thorough than the previous project."

Common error

Ensure that the comparison made with "but less" is specific. Avoid ambiguity by clearly stating what is being compared. For example, don't just say "I like it, but less." Instead, specify: "I like the color, but less than the design."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but less" functions as an adversative conjunction indicating a contrast where the second element is of a smaller degree or amount than the first. Ludwig AI confirms its usage across various contexts, highlighting its role in comparisons.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but less" is a grammatically sound and frequently used conjunction phrase that serves to introduce a contrast involving a reduced degree or amount. Ludwig AI analysis of numerous examples reveals its common usage in news, media, and scientific contexts. When employing this phrase, clarity is key: always ensure the comparison is explicit to avoid ambiguity. While versatile, "but less" is best suited for neutral registers, making it appropriate for a wide range of writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but to a lesser extent

Rephrases "less" with a more formal and explicit expression of degree.

while not as much

Uses a more descriptive phrase to express a lower quantity or degree.

however to a smaller degree

This suggests that although there might be some characteristic there is definitely "a smaller degree" of it

although reduced

Highlights the act of reduction, using "reduced" to indicate a decrease.

however smaller

Replaces "less" with "smaller", focusing on size or quantity.

yet fewer

Focuses on a smaller number, using "fewer" to specify quantity.

but on a smaller scale

Replaces "less" with a new combination of words indicating that the magnitude or scope is not as important as it should be.

though diminished

Emphasizes a reduction or weakening, using "diminished" as a stronger synonym for "less".

though comparatively lower

Using the words "comparatively lower" this phrase means that something is low related to something else.

but not as greatly

Using the words "not as greatly" this phrase conveys the meaning that magnitude or intensity is inferior.

FAQs

How can I use "but less" in a sentence?

Use "but less" to indicate a smaller degree or amount compared to something else. For example, "I enjoy running, but less than swimming." It's crucial to provide context for what is being reduced.

What are some alternatives to "but less"?

You can use alternatives like "but to a lesser extent", "while not as much", or "although reduced" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "but less"?

Yes, "but less" is grammatically correct and commonly used to express a reduced degree or amount. However, ensure that the comparison is clear and not vague.

How does "but less" compare to "but fewer"?

"But less" is used for uncountable nouns or abstract concepts (e.g., "but less time", "but less effort"), while "but fewer" is used for countable nouns (e.g., "but fewer cars", "but fewer people").