is less capable of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is less capable of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare the abilities or capacities of different subjects, indicating that one subject has a lower capability than another. Example: "In this context, the older model is less capable of processing data quickly compared to the newer version."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

This new gut microbiome is less capable of digesting fiber and less diverse, containing fewer species of bacteria.

Harvard University

Equally, as the optimism that once suffused the humanist impulse has ebbed away, politics, too, is less capable of providing a means through which people can express agency.

The Guardian - Opinion

There are numerous reactive compounds such as free radicals which the body is less capable of fighting off these unwanted dangerous molecules.

Microchemical Journal

The blind, white-hot reactions of the young are gone; the middle-aged receptacle is less capable of the old thrills yet at the same time less susceptible to being fooled.

The New York Times - Arts

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

37 human-written examples

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

The New York Times - Arts

Others have extended lifetimes but are less capable of logic operation.

Yale University

After Brexit the UK is expected to be less capable of addressing the refugee crisis.

The Guardian

"We don't see any evidence that young people are less capable of voting or less interested in taking part.

The Guardian

If hormones meant women were less inclined to start wars, did it also mean they were less capable of ambition?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is less capable of", ensure the comparison is clear. Specify what the subject is less capable of compared to what or whom. This provides context and clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "is less capable of" without specifying a reference point. For example, instead of saying "The old system is less capable", specify "The old system is less capable of handling large datasets compared to the new system".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is less capable of" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It's used to describe a subject's diminished ability to perform a specific action or task. Ludwig AI provides examples where it indicates reduced functionality in various contexts, from digesting fiber to fighting off infections.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

32%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is less capable of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for indicating reduced ability. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it appears across diverse contexts, including science, news, and academic writing. While straightforward, clarity is key: ensure the comparison is well-defined to avoid ambiguity. For variety, consider alternatives like "is not as able to" or "struggles with". Keep in mind that "is less capable of" denotes a diminished capacity, whereas "is incapable of" signifies a complete absence of ability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not as able to

Replaces "less capable" with a more direct comparison of ability.

is less equipped for

Focuses on the lack of necessary resources or preparation.

is not as proficient in

Emphasizes a lack of skill or expertise in a specific area.

is at a disadvantage in

Highlights a position of weakness or reduced effectiveness.

struggles with

Indicates difficulty or a lack of ease in performing an action.

lacks the capacity for

Focuses on the absence of inherent potential or ability.

is limited in its ability to

Highlights constraints or restrictions on one's ability.

is deficient in

Emphasizes a lack of essential qualities or abilities.

falls short in

Indicates a failure to meet expectations or requirements.

has difficulty in

Highlights the presence of obstacles or challenges.

FAQs

How can I use "is less capable of" in a sentence?

Use "is less capable of" to compare the abilities of two subjects, indicating that one has a reduced capacity in a specific area. For example: "The older model "is less capable of" processing data quickly."

What are some alternatives to "is less capable of"?

Alternatives include "is not as able to", "is less equipped for", or "struggles with" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "is less capable than"?

While "is less capable of" is correct, you can also use "is less capable than" when directly comparing two subjects. For example, "Device A is less capable than Device B."

What's the difference between "is less capable of" and "is incapable of"?

"Is less capable of" implies a reduced ability, while "is incapable of" means completely unable. The first suggests a limited capacity, and the second suggests no capacity at all.