is less tangible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is less tangible" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not easily perceived or measured, often in contrast to something that is more concrete or physical. Example: "The emotional impact of the film is less tangible than its visual effects, yet it resonates deeply with the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

But for many, the problem is less tangible.

The New York Times

The long-game of the Post-Crash Economics Society (PCES) is less tangible.

The Guardian

"The most crucial thing the US gets is less tangible," he says.

The Guardian

The third intended legacy is less tangible but no less important.

The Guardian

We're asking you to test this thing which is less tangible and less transactable, which is your privacy".

The Guardian

But most of Ms. di Mauro's talent, as I discovered the day I spent with her, is less tangible.

The New York Times - Food

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Other worries are less tangible.

The New York Times

Her aims are less tangible, more ambitious.

The Guardian - Sport

There are less tangible costs, too.

The New York Times

They are less tangible, but no less important".

The New York Times - Science

Other benefits are less tangible but perhaps even more powerful.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is less tangible", ensure you clearly contrast it with a more concrete or measurable aspect to highlight the difference effectively.

Common error

Avoid using "is less tangible" in isolation without explaining what makes it so. Always provide context or comparison to something more concrete for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is less tangible" functions as a comparative descriptor. It signifies that something possesses a quality that is not easily perceived or quantified, especially when compared to another element that is more concrete. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and common.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is less tangible" effectively communicates that something is not easily perceived or measured, especially when compared to something more concrete. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across various sources. As the analysis shows, it appears most often in News & Media, followed by Science. When employing the phrase, ensure clear context by contrasting it with something more concrete to amplify its effect. Alternatives like "is more abstract" or "is not concrete" offer similar meanings but with slight shifts in emphasis. By using it judiciously, you can effectively convey the abstract or non-physical nature of a subject.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is more abstract

Focuses on the abstract nature rather than the lack of tangibility.

is not concrete

Highlights the lack of physical or definite form.

is more elusive

Emphasizes the difficulty in capturing or defining.

is harder to define

Directly addresses the difficulty in providing a clear definition.

is not easily measured

Focuses on the lack of quantifiable metrics.

is not readily apparent

Highlights the difficulty in being easily seen or understood.

is more subtle

Indicates a quality of being delicate or understated.

is difficult to grasp

Emphasizes the challenge in understanding or comprehending.

is not physically present

Highlights the absence of a physical form or existence.

is mostly conceptual

Highlights reliance on theoretical or abstract ideas.

FAQs

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

Use "is less tangible" to describe something that is not easily perceived or measured directly. For example, "The impact of the policy change "is less tangible" than its financial costs, but it is still significant".

What are some alternatives to "is less tangible"?

Alternatives include "is more abstract", "is not concrete", or "is more elusive". The best choice depends on the specific context.

What does it mean when something "is less tangible"?

It means that the thing being described is not easily perceived by the senses or measured objectively. It often refers to abstract concepts, emotions, or indirect effects.

Is it better to use "is less tangible" or "is intangible"?

Both are correct, but "is less tangible" implies a comparison to something more tangible, while "is intangible" suggests a complete lack of physical presence. Choose the phrase that best fits the nuance you want to convey.