is less capable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is less capable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare the abilities or competencies of two or more subjects, indicating that one has a lower level of capability than another. Example: "In this project, the new software is less capable than the previous version, leading to some performance issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

The base V-8 engine (4.7 liters, 276 horsepower) is not recommended; it gets poorer mileage and is less capable in every way.

The New York Times

"We are going to be living with an aircraft that is less capable in the grand scheme of things," he said.

The New York Times

Although the latest incarnation of al-Qaeda in Iraq is less capable than in previous years of attacking ministries and security installations, its multipronged attack last month on the prisons at Abu Ghraib and Taji, whence some 500 inmates escaped, pointed to a higher level of organisation, funding and perhaps most dangerous of all complicity within Iraq's security forces.

The Economist

Does it mean a female heart surgeon is less capable for one week a month?

BBC

In comparison, beamforming is less capable of resolving the simultaneous sources.

Earth, Planets and Space

The researchers conclude that the superpili strain is less capable of going on to establish new sites of infection.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

"They're less capable, even if they're still lethal.

The New York Times

They're less capable of puppet-mastering the whole scene".

The New York Times - Arts

But we certainly are less capable than the Israelis of manipulating the media.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It just reinforces the traditional cultural view that women are less capable than men".

The New York Times

Some men think women are less capable, and some laws treat the sexes differently.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is less capable", ensure you provide context by specifying what the subject is less capable of. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity. For example, "The older model is less capable of handling large datasets."

Common error

Avoid using "is less capable" without clearly stating what it is being compared to. Saying "The new system is less capable" is vague. Instead, specify "The new system is less capable than the previous one in terms of processing speed."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is less capable" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It attributes a quality of reduced ability or effectiveness to a subject, indicating that it does not possess the same level of competence as another subject or a previous state. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is less capable" is a commonly used comparative adjective phrase that indicates a reduced ability or effectiveness. It is grammatically correct and versatile, appearing frequently in both scientific and news contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its valid usage. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to provide clear context by specifying what the subject is less capable of and what it's being compared to, ensuring precision and avoiding ambiguity. While "is less capable" can be considered relatively neutral, it can be rephrased for use in either formal or more casual contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not as able

Emphasizes a comparison of abilities, highlighting that one subject lacks the capacity of another.

has reduced capacity

Focuses on the diminished capacity or potential of something compared to a previous state or another entity.

is not equipped to

Highlights a lack of necessary equipment or resources to perform a specific task effectively.

is deficient in

Indicates a specific area or skill where something lacks competence or proficiency.

falls short in

Stresses the failure to meet a certain standard or expectation in a particular aspect.

is weaker at

Directly compares the strength or ability in a specific area, indicating a lower level of performance.

lacks the skill to

Emphasizes the absence of a particular skill required for a task or activity.

is at a disadvantage

Focuses on the unfavorable position or circumstances that hinder performance or capability.

struggles with

Highlights the difficulty or challenge faced in performing a task or activity.

is impaired in

Indicates a diminished or compromised ability due to a specific condition or circumstance.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "is less capable" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "exhibits diminished capacity", "demonstrates reduced efficacy", or "possesses limited functionality" depending on the context.

What are some synonyms for "is less capable" in technical writing?

In technical contexts, suitable alternatives include "has lower performance", "is less efficient", "is not optimized for", or "lacks the ability to".

How do I use "is less capable" in a comparative sentence?

When using "is less capable" in a comparative sentence, ensure you specify what the subject is being compared to. For example, "This phone is less capable than the previous model in terms of battery life."

Is there a difference between "is less capable" and "is incapable"?

"Is less capable" implies a reduced level of ability or effectiveness, while "is incapable" means completely unable to perform a task. The former suggests a degree of functionality, whereas the latter suggests a complete absence of it.