but less so

USAGE SUMMARY

"but less so" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is used to express a decreasing degree of something. For example, "I enjoyed the movie, but less so the sequel."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But less so now.

The New York Times - Arts

But less so within opera.

The New York Times

But less so today than last Friday.

The New Yorker

US companies still dominate, but less so.

The Guardian

Hacekel was certainly an evolutionist but less so a Darwinian.

University of California, Berkeley

He seems friendly at first but less so later.

The New Yorker

Mr. Gassman's sincerity is apparent, but less so his focus.

The New York Times

Stewart also got involved but less so, the prosecution claims.

Independent

(The secular parties are involved, too, but less so).

The New York Times

Kinney captures these characters, but less so their passion.

The New York Times - Books

I used to be shy, but less so now.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but less so", ensure the preceding statement clearly establishes the initial degree or extent for a clear comparison.

Common error

Avoid using "but less so" without a clear reference point for comparison; ensure the reader understands what is being diminished.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but less so" primarily functions as an adversative conjunction phrase. It introduces a contrast or qualification, indicating a reduced degree or extent of something previously mentioned. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

46%

News & Media

34%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but less so" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that functions as an adversative conjunction, introducing a qualification or contrast with a diminished degree. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable. Appearing across various sources, particularly in scientific and news contexts, it offers a concise way to indicate a reduced extent or intensity. When using this phrase, ensure the context provides a clear reference point for comparison. While versatile, consider alternatives for nuanced expression, and maintain clarity to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

though to a lesser extent

Emphasizes a reduced degree compared to something previously mentioned.

however, not as much

Highlights the difference in quantity or intensity.

yet to a smaller degree

Indicates a smaller impact or influence.

still, to a diminished degree

Conveys that something is still happening, but with reduced strength.

even so, to a slighter extent

Suggests a minor reduction in scope or effect.

although to a reduced level

Focuses on the decreased quantity or amount.

nonetheless, to a lower intensity

Points out a weaker level of strength or force.

conversely, on a smaller scale

Emphasizes the reduced scope or magnitude.

in contrast, to a weaker effect

Highlights the reduced impact or outcome.

alternatively, to a more limited degree

Shows that something is happening, but is constrained more.

FAQs

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

Use "but less so" to indicate that something is true or applicable to a lesser extent than something previously mentioned. For example: "He enjoys running, "but less so" in hot weather."

What are some alternatives to "but less so"?

Some alternatives include phrases like "though to a lesser extent", "however, not as much", or "yet to a smaller degree". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "but less so" formal or informal?

The phrase "but less so" is generally suitable for both formal and informal writing, maintaining a neutral tone. However, in very formal contexts, consider using alternatives for greater precision.

What's the difference between "but less so" and "but not as much"?

"But less so" and "but not as much" are very similar in meaning. "But less so" is slightly more concise, while "but not as much" may provide slightly more emphasis on the difference in degree.