is less straightforward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is less straightforward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation, concept, or process that is complicated or not easily understood. Example: "The solution to the problem is less straightforward than it initially appeared."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The reality is less straightforward.

The Guardian - Opinion

The political judgment is less straightforward.

The Economist

But seizing products is less straightforward.

The New York Times

The math is less straightforward for older workers.

The New York Times

For years, though, there have been indications that the process is less straightforward than it seems.

The New Yorker

Passing or failing a standardized test is less straightforward than it seems.

The New York Times

As for the first part of the question, the answer is less straightforward.

The Guardian

But the link between suffering and trauma is less straightforward than many assume.

The Economist

Caer means fort in Welsh, but translating dydd is less straightforward.

The Economist

That was her secret - she was a creator of atmosphere.' But to define that atmosphere is less straightforward.

The Guardian - Books

But determining the guilt or innocence of Ongwen is less straightforward than the reams of evidence gathered by the prosecution may suggest.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is less straightforward", ensure you elaborate on why the subject is complex or requires further explanation. Provide specific details to clarify the intricacies.

Common error

Avoid using "is less straightforward" without providing context or explanation. Readers may struggle to understand what aspects are complex or non-obvious without additional details.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is less straightforward" functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a subject by describing it as not being simple or easy to understand. It often introduces a qualification or contrast, suggesting that a deeper examination is needed. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

40%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is less straightforward" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to convey complexity or a lack of directness. As evidenced by Ludwig AI, this phrase appears frequently in various contexts, most notably in Science and News & Media sources. Its function is to signal that a situation or concept requires more than a simple understanding, often setting the stage for further analysis. While alternatives like "is more complex" or "is not as simple" exist, "is less straightforward" maintains a neutral to formal tone, suitable for professional and academic discourse. When using the phrase, provide adequate context to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is more complicated

Replaces "straightforward" with its direct antonym, resulting in a more complex overall statement.

is more intricate

Focuses on the detailed and complex nature of the subject.

is more involved

Highlights the complexity by suggesting multiple elements or steps are necessary.

is not as simple

Uses a simpler structure to convey a similar meaning of complexity.

is not cut and dried

Uses an idiomatic expression to mean the situation is not easily resolved or clear.

is not black and white

Similar to "is not cut and dried", this idiom suggests a lack of clear distinctions.

is subject to interpretation

Emphasizes that understanding the subject depends on individual perspective, implying complexity.

presents challenges

Shifts the focus to the difficulties the complexity presents.

demands a nuanced approach

Suggests that the subject requires careful and detailed consideration.

requires careful consideration

Similar to 'demands a nuanced approach', but emphasizes the need for thoughtfulness rather than complexity.

FAQs

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

In more formal contexts, you might use alternatives like "is more complex", "requires a more nuanced approach", or "is subject to greater interpretative variability".

What does "is less straightforward" mean?

The phrase indicates that something is not simple or easy to understand. It implies complexity or a lack of directness in a situation or process.

Which is correct, "is less straightforward" or "is not straightforward"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "is less straightforward" implies a degree of complexity, whereas "is not straightforward" simply means it's not simple or direct. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What are some simpler alternatives to "is less straightforward"?

You can use simpler alternatives such as "is more complex", "is complicated", or "is not simple" depending on the context.