decidedly less

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "decidedly less" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize a significant reduction or decrease in comparison to something else. Example: "The new model is decided less efficient than its predecessor, leading to increased operational costs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

After that, he is decidedly less focused.

The New York Times

Karge is decidedly less terrified.

The Guardian

Others were decidedly less ebullient.

The New York Times

Her aspirations are decidedly less humble now.

The New York Times - Sports

Williams, however, received decidedly less praise.

The Washington Post

More, in his case, is decidedly less.

The New York Times - Arts

Frame making is decidedly less fragmented.

The New York Times - Tech

"Seeing You" is decidedly less engaging.

The New Yorker

They are also decidedly less sympathetic.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It was decidedly less cinematic than rat-a-tat-tat.

The New York Times

This makes the two stories decidedly less sexy.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "decidedly less" to emphasize a clear and noticeable decrease or reduction, especially when contrasting two situations or items. For a stronger impact, ensure the context clearly establishes the basis for comparison.

Common error

While "decidedly less" is grammatically sound, it can sound overly formal or stiff in casual conversation. Opt for more natural alternatives like "much less" or "not as much" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "decidedly less" functions as an intensifier modifying an adjective or adverb. It serves to emphasize that something is significantly reduced in comparison to something else. Ludwig AI validates this use through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Academia

10%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "decidedly less" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression for emphasizing a noticeable decrease or reduction. As Ludwig AI indicates, it frequently appears in news and media, academic writing, and scientific publications. While effective in conveying contrast and comparison, its slightly formal tone may not always be suitable for casual conversations. Consider alternatives such as "significantly less" or "noticeably less" for varied contexts. Be mindful of overusing "decidedly less" in informal settings to maintain a natural and engaging communication style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significantly less

Emphasizes the magnitude of the reduction.

markedly less

Highlights the noticeable difference in quantity or degree.

substantially less

Indicates a considerable decrease.

noticeably less

Focuses on the ease with which the reduction can be observed.

appreciably less

Suggests a reduction that is large enough to be important or significant.

distinctly less

Indicates a clear and definite reduction.

considerably less

Highlights the extent of the reduction.

measurably less

Implies that the reduction can be quantified.

visibly less

Focuses on the obviousness of the reduction.

palpably less

Indicates that the reduction is easily perceived.

FAQs

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

"Decidedly less" is used to emphasize a clear decrease or reduction. For example: "The updated version is "decidedly less" expensive than the original model."

What are some alternatives to using "decidedly less"?

You can use phrases like "significantly less", "noticeably less", or "substantially less" depending on the context.

Which is more appropriate: "decidedly less" or "definitely less"?

"Decidedly less" is often perceived as more formal and emphatic than "definitely less". The choice depends on the tone and context of your writing or speech. "Decidedly less" implies a more considered judgment.

What's the nuance between "decidedly less" and "slightly less"?

"Decidedly less" indicates a clear and noticeable reduction, while "slightly less" implies a small and often insignificant difference. Use ""decidedly less"" when the decrease is substantial enough to be noteworthy; otherwise, opt for "slightly less".