distinctly less

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "distinctly less" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize a noticeable difference in quantity or degree, indicating that something is significantly lower than another. Example: "The new model is distinctly less efficient than its predecessor, leading to higher operational costs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

He was distinctly less forthcoming about domestic problems in Iran.

The New York Times

But the bulk of entries were distinctly less sober.

The Guardian

But so far I'm distinctly less perky than usual.

Independent

The villain of "The Lord of the Rings" is absolute evil, which is distinctly less amusing.

The New York Times - Books

Yet for a few seasons now, my old standby has seemed distinctly less modern and chic.

The New York Times

"You're alive," she whispers, as Gale looks distinctly less thrilled at the revelation.

Independent

American movies are, to put it gently, rather less contemplative, and distinctly less keen on enigmas.

The New York Times

Blue Smarties were dropped in 2005, only to return in 2008 as a distinctly less blue.

The Guardian - Business

He was distinctly less vigorous, moving with a sad deliberation, as if guarding against a fall.

The New Yorker

At which point, according to an interview with TechCrunch Klein and Getty get distinctly less comfortable.

The Guardian

Second, while neoconservatism is highly congenial to corporate interests, it is distinctly less so than other forms of conservatism.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, follow "distinctly less" with a specific comparison or explanation of what is being compared and how it differs. For example, "The new policy is distinctly less effective than the previous one in reducing recidivism rates."

Common error

While "distinctly less" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. In such contexts, consider more precise or sophisticated alternatives like "markedly reduced" or "significantly lower" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distinctly less" primarily functions as an intensifying adverbial modifier of an adjective or adverb. It serves to emphasize that something is notably reduced in quantity, quality, or degree. Ludwig examples show its widespread use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "distinctly less" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to highlight a noticeable reduction or lower degree of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While prevalent in news and media, it also appears in scientific and formal contexts. When using "distinctly less", ensure that the context aligns with the emphasis on a clear and significant difference. Consider alternatives like "markedly reduced" or "significantly lower" for more formal tones, and avoid overuse to maintain clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

markedly reduced

Emphasizes a noticeable decrease, focusing on the result of the reduction.

significantly lower

Highlights the importance of the difference in quantity or degree.

appreciably smaller

Stresses that the difference is easily perceived or measured.

noticeably diminished

Focuses on the observable decrease or reduction in something.

considerably fewer

Indicates a substantial difference in number or amount.

substantially reduced

Highlights a large or important decrease.

plainly not as much

Emphasizes the clarity and obviousness of the reduction.

visibly smaller

Focuses on the ease with which one can see the difference in size or amount.

clearly diminished

Highlights the lack of ambiguity or doubt in the observation of the decrease.

patently not as great

Emphasizes the undeniable and obvious nature of the reduced magnitude.

FAQs

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

Use "distinctly less" to emphasize a clear reduction or lower degree. For example, "The updated software uses "significantly less" memory than the previous version." You can use alternatives like "markedly smaller" or "appreciably fewer" depending on the context.

What phrases are similar in meaning to "distinctly less"?

Synonymous phrases include "noticeably diminished", "considerably fewer", and "substantially reduced". Each highlights a clear difference in quantity or degree.

Is "distinctly less" appropriate for formal writing?

While acceptable, "distinctly less" might be considered less formal. In academic or professional contexts, "significantly lower" or "markedly reduced" can provide a more refined tone.

How does "distinctly less" compare to "slightly less"?

"Distinctly less" emphasizes a more substantial difference than "slightly less". If the reduction is minor, "slightly less" is appropriate; however, for noticeable differences, "distinctly less" is more effective.