is less substantial

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is less substantial" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare the significance or importance of two or more things, indicating that one is not as significant as the other. Example: "While the first argument was compelling, the second one is less substantial and lacks supporting evidence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

(The second is less substantial and more grating than the first).

The New York Times - Arts

The entire online world is less substantial than a single piece of paint on one of Rembrandt's encrusted canvases.

The Guardian - Arts

But this dismissive attitude is as misleading as it would be for us to believe that invisible clear air is less substantial that the clouds floating in it.

The Guardian

The resulting sound may, in decibel terms, be louder than what you hear in the concert hall, but the impact is less substantial.

The New Yorker

The new show is less substantial — and memorable — than their first, which heaven knows was no "Sweeney Todd" in the heft department, for all its daffy charm.

The New York Times

No wonder Mr Blair's "legacy" is less substantial than he would wish after a decade of power.With Gordon, things are different.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Interviews with Junior's surviving sons are less substantial but viscerally charged.

The New York Times - Arts

The official said there was less substantial evidence showing that other hijackers trained at the camps.

The New York Times

And any reimbursements can be less substantial than for in-person treatment.

The New York Times - Tech

As with so many people, the more attractive scallops are less substantial and less deeply rewarding than the ugly ones.

The New York Times - Magazine

Of the desired 2m filings, many will be for "utility" or "design" patents, which are less substantial than "invention" patents.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is less substantial" when comparing two or more items where one has notably less weight, impact, or significance than the others. It is especially useful when quantifying an abstract quality.

Common error

Avoid using "is less substantial" too frequently in formal writing. Vary your language with alternatives like "is less significant" or "is of lesser importance" to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is less substantial" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, indicating that something has less weight, impact, or significance compared to something else. This is supported by Ludwig, which shows numerous examples in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

36%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is less substantial" is a versatile phrase used to express that something has less weight, impact, or significance in comparison to something else. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and frequently appears in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. While generally neutral in tone, it's important to consider using more formal alternatives in specific contexts to improve sophistication. The provided related phrases and writing guidance will help you to properly employ this phrase, or its alternatives, in your written work.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not as significant

Changes the wording to emphasize a lack of significance.

is of lesser importance

Replaces 'substantial' with 'importance', focusing on reduced value.

is not as weighty

Uses 'weighty' as a metaphor for significance, indicating less influence.

is of reduced magnitude

Employs 'magnitude' to suggest a smaller scale or impact.

is comparatively insignificant

Adds 'comparatively' to highlight the difference in significance.

is somewhat trivial

Uses 'trivial' to imply a lack of importance.

is marginally relevant

Focuses on relevance, suggesting a minimal connection.

is minimally impactful

Highlights the limited effect or influence.

is relatively minor

Uses 'minor' to indicate a reduced degree of importance.

is not particularly compelling

Shifts focus to the lack of persuasiveness or conviction.

FAQs

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

You can use "is less substantial" to compare the weight, impact, or importance of two or more items. For instance, "The evidence presented in the second case /s/is+less+substantial, making it difficult to reach a verdict".

What are some alternatives to "is less substantial"?

Some alternatives include "is not as significant", "is of lesser importance", or "is comparatively insignificant", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "is less substantial" in academic writing?

Yes, "is less substantial" can be used in academic writing, but ensure the context is appropriate. More formal alternatives may be preferred in certain disciplines. Always consider the tone and register of your writing.

What's the difference between "is less substantial" and "is less important"?

While both phrases indicate a reduced degree of significance, "is less substantial" often implies a tangible or quantifiable difference in weight or impact, whereas "is less important" is more general and can refer to any kind of diminished value or relevance.