is less sympathetic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is less sympathetic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the level of sympathy or compassion between two subjects or situations. Example: "In this debate, the opposing side is less sympathetic to the plight of the refugees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Ms Willis is less sympathetic.

Independent

Netrebko's Manon is less sympathetic than most.

The Guardian - Music

He is less sympathetic towards Lalas, understandably.

The Guardian - Sport

Segev is less sympathetic toward Israel's decision to attack first.

The New Yorker

China is less sympathetic, however, to its own artistic community.

Independent

Of the sport Hamilton dominates, in which the current formula has been widely criticised, he is less sympathetic.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Others have been less sympathetic.

The New Yorker

Others were less sympathetic.

The Guardian

Geoff Boycott was less sympathetic.

The Guardian

Mr. Menon, the professor, was less sympathetic.

The New York Times

Other local property owners are less sympathetic.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is less sympathetic", ensure the comparison is clear. Specify who or what is being compared to whom or what. This provides context and strengthens your statement.

Common error

Be cautious about overuse of "is less sympathetic" in contexts where strong empathy is expected. Overusing it may come across as dismissive or insensitive. Choose stronger, more descriptive language to convey a lack of empathy effectively.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "is less sympathetic" is to serve as a comparative adjective phrase, typically used to describe a subject's diminished capacity for empathy or understanding in relation to another subject or a general expectation. As Ludwig AI shows, this phrase often appears in sentences that juxtapose different reactions or perspectives.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is less sympathetic" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed comparative adjective phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. It serves to express a reduced capacity for empathy or understanding, often in comparison to another subject or an expected norm. While versatile, writers should be mindful of the context and consider stronger alternatives when a more pronounced lack of sympathy needs to be conveyed. Its neutrality allows it to fit into many registers, making it a useful addition to any writer's toolkit. Key authoritative sources frequently employing this phrase include The Guardian, The New York Times, and The Washington Post.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is less compassionate

Focuses specifically on the lack of compassion or pity.

is less empathetic

Highlights a reduced ability to understand or share the feelings of another.

is less understanding

Highlights a reduced capacity to comprehend or accept another's situation.

exhibits less concern

Directly states a reduction in worry or care.

is more indifferent

Suggests a neutral stance, lacking strong feelings either way.

is more apathetic

Indicates a stronger lack of interest or concern.

is more unfeeling

Emphasizes the absence of emotional responsiveness.

is more callous

Implies a hardened insensitivity and disregard for others' feelings.

is more detached

Implies a lack of emotional involvement or connection.

is less forgiving

Focuses on a reluctance to pardon or excuse mistakes or offenses.

FAQs

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

You can use "is less sympathetic" to compare the attitudes or feelings of different entities. For example: "The manager is less sympathetic to employee concerns compared to the HR department".

What are some alternatives to "is less sympathetic"?

Alternatives include "is more apathetic", "is less compassionate", or "is more indifferent", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What is the difference between "is less sympathetic" and "is unsympathetic"?

"Is less sympathetic" implies a comparative lack of sympathy, while "is unsympathetic" suggests a complete absence of sympathy. Therefore, "is unsympathetic" is a stronger statement.

Is it grammatically correct to say "is less sympathetic"?

Yes, it's grammatically correct. The phrase follows standard comparative adjective construction and is widely used in both formal and informal writing as shown by Ludwig.