does less

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "does less" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a reduction in the amount or degree of something being done or achieved. Example: "In this new approach, the software does less processing, which improves overall efficiency."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Eden does less well.

The Guardian - Books

It still does, less a few hundred.

The Economist

Ms. Loomer does less well with Nancy.

The New York Times

One does less damage with a mortar".

The Guardian - Books

Bennie does less of this than the rest of us.

The New Yorker

The hedonist usually does less harm than the fanatic.

The New York Times - Books

France, historically a close friend of Romania, does less well.

The Economist

Direct spending on skills development is now more popular but does less to support the organization.

The New York Times

Mistletoe does less damage than other parasites, but can still stunt growth and weaken wood.

The New York Times

Elegance-appreciators, on the other hand, prefer something that does less, but does it better.

The New York Times - Tech

Ultimately, Nadal beats Federer because he does less on the court under pressure, not more.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing the effectiveness of two approaches, use "does less" to highlight the one with reduced impact or effort. For example: "A minimalist design often "does less" to distract the user, leading to improved focus".

Common error

Avoid using "does less" without a clear point of comparison. Ensure it's evident what is being compared and in what context the reduction is occurring. Unclear comparisons can lead to confusion or misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "does less" primarily functions as a verb phrase used to indicate a reduction in action, effort, or output. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it effectively conveys a comparative decrease in performance or activity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "does less" is a versatile and commonly used verb phrase that effectively communicates a reduction in activity, effort, or output. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Scientific publications. To ensure clarity, always provide a clear point of comparison. Alternatives like "performs fewer" or "achieves less" can be used depending on the desired emphasis. Overall, "does less" is a reliable and straightforward way to express diminished action or performance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

performs fewer

Focuses on the action and number of instances reduced.

achieves less

Emphasizes the reduced level of accomplishment or outcome.

exerts less effort

Highlights the reduction in the amount of effort applied.

undertakes fewer

Specifies a smaller number of tasks or activities undertaken.

minimizes activity

Implies an intentional effort to reduce or keep activity at a minimum.

reduces output

Highlights the reduction in the quantity of production or results.

accomplishes fewer tasks

Focuses on the reduction in the number of completed tasks.

is less effective

Indicates a decrease in the degree of effectiveness.

shows diminished performance

Emphasizes the reduced level of performance or capability.

curtails operations

Suggests a reduction in the scope or extent of operations.

FAQs

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

Use "does less" to indicate that something performs fewer actions, produces fewer results, or exerts less effort compared to something else. For example, "This new software "does less" processing, which enhances overall efficiency".

What are some alternatives to "does less"?

Alternatives include "performs fewer", "achieves less", or "exerts less effort", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "does less" instead of "is less"?

"Does less" is best used when referring to actions or processes that are reduced, while "is less" is generally used for describing qualities or states. For example, "This engine "does less" work" versus "This car is less efficient".

Is "does less" formal or informal?

"Does less" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, as demonstrated by its frequent use in news media, academic articles, and everyday conversation. The level of formality depends more on the surrounding language than the phrase itself.