fewer traffic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fewer traffic" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to the amount or volume of traffic in a specific area or during a certain time. For example, "Due to the pandemic, the city has seen fewer traffic on its streets this year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

There would be fewer traffic complications on July 8.

The New York Times - Sports

An added bonus: fewer traffic accidents, injuries and deaths.

The New York Times

[Brooklyn Paper] The police are writing fewer traffic tickets in 2011.

The New York Times

Might delayed repairs result in less roadwork this year and therefore fewer traffic jams?

The New York Times

No wasted electricity, fewer traffic emissions, faster traffic and less damage from traffic collisions.

The New York Times

It brings fewer traffic jams, lower emissions and greatly improves public health through more physical activity.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

The New Yorker, January 24 , 1953P. 20 Taxidriver commenting on how much better things were with the buses off the streets-fewer traffic jams, etc. "Still, I wish they'd settle the strike," he added.

The New Yorker

By Janet K. Low and Geoffrey T. Hellman The New Yorker, January 24 , 1953P. 20 Taxidriver commenting on how much better things were with the buses off the streets-fewer traffic jams, etc. "Still, I wish they'd settle the strike," he added.

The New Yorker

A few traffic cops appeared at intersections.

The New York Times

Only a few traffic policemen stood along the funeral route.

The New York Times

The United States has very few traffic circles, or roundabouts.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing traffic conditions after implementing a new policy or infrastructure change, use "fewer traffic" to highlight the positive impact of the changes, such as "After the new bypass was built, there was fewer traffic in the city center."

Common error

Avoid assuming that "fewer traffic" automatically translates to faster commutes for everyone. Consider that reduced traffic in one area might shift congestion to another, affecting commute times differently.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fewer traffic" functions as a determiner ("fewer") modifying a noun ("traffic"). Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It indicates a reduced quantity or volume of vehicles or traffic flow.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fewer traffic" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate a reduction in traffic volume. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability for use in writing. While "less traffic" is also acceptable (and more frequent), "fewer traffic" is suitable when considering individual vehicles. The phrase appears predominantly in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, maintaining a neutral register. When using this phrase, it is important to consider that reduced traffic in one area might not necessarily mean reduced traffic everywhere; therefore, generalizations should be avoided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less traffic

Uses a different determiner to indicate a smaller quantity of traffic. "Less" is typically used with uncountable nouns.

reduced traffic volume

Replaces "fewer" with "reduced" and uses "volume" to specify the measured quantity of traffic.

lighter traffic

Describes traffic using an adjective indicating lower density or intensity.

decreased traffic flow

Focuses on the movement of traffic and indicates a reduction in its rate.

thinner traffic

Describes the traffic as less dense, implying more space between vehicles.

lower traffic density

Specifies the number of vehicles per unit area or length of road.

less congested roads

Shifts the focus to the state of the roads as being less crowded due to lower traffic.

improved traffic conditions

Indicates a better state of traffic flow, often implying fewer delays and congestion.

easier traffic flow

Highlights the ease and smoothness of traffic movement as a result of lower volume.

diminished road traffic

Emphasizes the reduction in traffic on roads specifically.

FAQs

How can I use "fewer traffic" in a sentence?

You can use "fewer traffic" to describe a situation where there is a reduction in the amount of traffic, such as "Due to road closures, we experienced "fewer traffic" than usual this morning".

What is a good alternative to "fewer traffic"?

Alternatives to "fewer traffic" include phrases like "less traffic", "reduced traffic volume", or "lighter traffic".

Is it grammatically correct to say "fewer traffic"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct, though "less traffic" is more common. "Fewer" is used with countable nouns, but in the context of traffic, it's acceptable as it refers to individual vehicles, while less refers to the overall mass.

What does it mean when someone says there is "fewer traffic"?

It means that there is a reduction in the amount of traffic compared to a previous or expected state. This can imply "less congestion" and potentially faster travel times.