is less outspoken

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is less outspoken" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to describe someone who is not as vocal or expressive in their opinions and beliefs. Example: While she used to be the most outspoken member of the group, she has become much more reserved and is now less outspoken on controversial topics.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Murphy is less outspoken.

The New York Times

Martha Clara's 2001 sémillon, a smaller-scale wine, is less outspoken but no less pleasing.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

People are less outspoken in other areas recently seized by Nkunda.

The Guardian

But I should have been less outspoken about the limited future of coal.

MIT Technology Review

The diplomat added that Mr. Trudeau believed other leaders shared his views but had just been less outspoken.

The New York Times

Channeling many officials who were less outspoken because they are still in federal office, Mr. Ahern said border security had undergone "remarkable improvements".

The New York Times

Mr. Petrovic, who has also taught in the United States and Europe, notes that in the context of Asian culture, wikis can help students who tend to be less outspoken.

The New York Times

Mr. Newsom acknowledged in an interview on Wednesday that he had made a choice to be less outspoken on same-sex marriage compared with past years.

The New York Times

He was less outspoken when asked for details of an American espionage drone flown from Afghanistan that apparently crashed in Iran this month.

The New York Times

All of those possible candidates have been less outspoken on behalf of conservation issues than the man who holds the job.

The New York Times

Al-Masry Al-Youm, it became clear, wanted to be more mainstream, which meant being less outspoken — and shucking its more progressive English-language branch.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a change in someone's behavior, use "is less outspoken" to indicate a conscious or unconscious decision to express themselves with less frequency or force. This is particularly useful when contrasting their current behavior with past actions.

Common error

Avoid using "is less outspoken" when describing someone who is naturally introverted; the phrase implies a change in behavior rather than an inherent personality trait. For a naturally quiet person, consider alternatives like "is reserved" or "is introverted".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is less outspoken" functions as a descriptive expression, typically used to indicate a decrease in someone's tendency to express their opinions or beliefs assertively. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in describing shifts in political stances and personal behavior.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is less outspoken" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that describes a reduction in someone's vocal assertiveness. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and demonstrates its usage across various contexts, predominantly in news and media, with secondary use in scientific discussions. When using this phrase, it's crucial to ensure that it accurately reflects a change in behavior rather than an inherent personality trait. Alternatives like "is more reserved" or "is quieter" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not as vocal

Directly contrasts a past state of being more vocal.

is more reserved

Focuses on increased restraint and quietness.

is quieter

Highlights a reduction in loudness or vocal activity.

is more subdued

Emphasizes a decrease in intensity and energy.

is less communicative

Indicates a reduction in overall communication.

is more taciturn

Suggests a habitual reluctance to speak.

is holding back

Focuses on the act of intentionally restraining oneself.

is keeping quiet

Highlights the act of remaining silent.

is becoming more reticent

Focuses on an increasing hesitance to speak freely.

is more tight-lipped

Suggests a deliberate refusal to divulge information.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone "is less outspoken"?

It means they are expressing their opinions and thoughts with less frequency or force than they used to. This could be due to various reasons, such as a change in personality, a new environment, or a conscious decision to be more reserved.

What can I say instead of "is less outspoken"?

You can use alternatives like "is more reserved", "is quieter", or "is more subdued" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How do I use "is less outspoken" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe a change in someone's behavior. For example: "Since joining the new company, she is less outspoken in meetings." or "After the incident, he became less outspoken about his political views."

What's the difference between "is less outspoken" and "is shy"?

"Is less outspoken" implies a change from a previous state of being more vocal, while "is shy" describes a general personality trait of being reserved and hesitant to speak up.