is less formal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is less formal" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to compare the level of formality between two different styles of communication or writing. Example: "The email I received from my colleague is less formal than the one I got from my supervisor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

Canada's process is less formal.

The Washington Post

The work here is less formal.

The Guardian

My tone for Artforum is less formal.

The New Yorker

With many other carriers the process is less formal.

The New York Times - Tech

His design process, for instance, is less formal.

The New York Times

"Our society is less formal, less dictated by formal religions," Mr. Isard said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

Even at a price, formality was less formal.

The New York Times

He said those talks have been less formal than usual, with negotiators abandoning the formality of proposals and counterproposals.

The New York Times - Sports

The process here was less formal".

The New York Times

Instead there will be less formal "discussions".

The Economist

Many affirmations were less formal.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two communication styles, clarify what specific aspects make one "is less formal" than the other, such as word choice, structure, or tone.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "is less formal" automatically equates to unprofessional. Context matters; a relaxed tone can be appropriate and effective in certain settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is less formal" functions primarily as a comparative adjective phrase. It's used to describe a quality or characteristic—formality—in relation to something else. Ludwig examples illustrate its role in contrasting styles, procedures, or settings.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Academia

14%

Science

14%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is less formal" is a versatile comparative used to describe a reduced level of formality across various contexts. As Ludwig AI highlights, it appears frequently in news, academic, and scientific sources to contrast styles, procedures, or settings. While grammatically correct and widely used, it's important to specify how something is less formal to avoid overgeneralization. Alternatives like "is more casual" or "is more relaxed" can offer nuanced expressions. Understanding these nuances ensures effective and contextually appropriate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is more informal

Direct synonym focusing on the absence of formality.

is more casual

Emphasizes a relaxed and informal tone rather than a simple reduction in formality.

is more relaxed

Highlights the relaxed nature, suggesting a lack of strict rules or protocols.

is less rigid

Highlights reduced inflexibility and a more adaptable approach.

is not as strict

Focuses on the reduction of stringency or rigidity, implying a loosening of rules.

is more laid-back

Suggests an easy-going and unceremonious atmosphere.

is less ceremonial

Focuses on the reduction of rituals and formalities.

is more approachable

Emphasizes ease of interaction and openness.

is more accessible

Emphasizes easier understanding and engagement.

is more conversational

Highlights an interactive and relaxed tone.

FAQs

How can I use "is less formal" in a sentence?

You can use "is less formal" to compare the level of formality between two things. For example, "An email is less formal than a letter", or "This meeting is less formal than the last one".

What's a good alternative to "is less formal"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "is more casual", "is more relaxed", or "is more informal".

What is the difference between "is less formal" and "is informal"?

"Is informal" describes something that lacks formality, while "is less formal" implies a comparison to something else. For example, a chat with friends is informal, but a company picnic is less formal than a board meeting.

When is it appropriate to use language that "is less formal"?

It's appropriate when the situation calls for a more relaxed and approachable tone. This could be in casual conversations, internal team communications, or marketing materials targeting a younger audience.