it is shorter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is shorter" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when comparing the length of two or more items, indicating that one is less lengthy than the other. Example: "The new version of the report is more concise; in fact, it is shorter than the previous one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is shorter than some of its cousins, reaching only about 2 feet in stature.

The New York Times

It is shorter than some of its cousins, reaching only about two feet in stature.

The New York Times

Specifically, it is shorter than that of adults; its opening to the nasopharynx is narrower; and it is positioned more horizontally [ 56].

BioMed Research International

It is shorter, because the river here is narrower.

The New Yorker

Please do not use the checkoff queue to request help, even if it is shorter.

University of California, Berkeley

The first is preferable because it is shorter and easier to understand.

Cornell University

It is shorter than any insulin that has been described in any animal.

The Guardian

In humans it is shorter than the other bone of the forearm, the ulna.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is shorter (by ~1 h) than that of the sH1N1 strain, though this difference is not statistically significant.

Nature

It is shorter and not as floppy, she said, and blooms as fast as Ziva, two to three weeks after planting.

The New York Times

Because it is shorter than the solar calendar, the dates of key religious festivals, such as the fasting month of Ramadan, move by about 11 days each year.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is shorter" when a direct comparison of length or duration is needed. For abstract comparisons, consider alternatives like "it is more concise" for brevity of text or "it is less complex" for simplicity of ideas.

Common error

Avoid using "it is shorter" without clearly defining what "it" refers to. This can lead to confusion and require the reader to guess the subject of comparison. Always provide context to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is shorter" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it's a grammatically correct way to describe something as having less length or duration compared to something else. It acts as a descriptor, providing information about a specific attribute.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

36%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is shorter" is a grammatically sound and widely used comparative phrase that effectively communicates a difference in length or duration. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and versatility across varied contexts. While its register is typically neutral, the context often dictates whether more precise language is required, especially in formal or scientific writing. Remember to always provide a clear reference for 'it' to avoid ambiguity. Common alternatives include phrases like "it is less lengthy" or "it has a shorter duration", depending on the specific meaning you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's not as long

A simpler, more informal way to express the comparison.

it's less lengthy

A more direct synonym focusing on the length attribute.

it has a shorter duration

Emphasizes the time aspect, suitable for events or processes.

it's of lesser length

Focuses on the physical measurement of length, sounding more formal.

it's trimmed down

Suggests that something has been made shorter by removing excess.

it's more concise

Highlights the brevity of expression or writing.

it's more compact

Focuses on efficient use of space or time, implying brevity.

it's a reduced version

Suggests a modified form that is compacted or abridged.

it's a condensed form

Implies a concentrated or compressed version of something.

it's abridged

Specifically refers to a text or account that has been shortened.

FAQs

How can I use "it is shorter" in a sentence?

Use "it is shorter" to compare the length or duration of two things. For example, "This route is faster because "it is shorter" than the other one", or "The meeting will be more efficient because "it is shorter" this time".

What's the difference between "it is shorter" and "it's shorter"?

"It is shorter" and "it's shorter" are essentially the same in meaning. "It's shorter" is a contraction of "it is shorter" and is generally used in more informal contexts. "It is shorter" might be preferred in formal writing for clarity or emphasis.

What can I say instead of "it is shorter"?

You can use alternatives like "it is less lengthy", "it is more concise" (for text), or "it has a shorter duration" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "it is shorter" in formal writing?

While "it is shorter" is grammatically correct, its suitability for formal writing depends on the context. In some cases, more precise or formal language might be preferred. For example, "the reduced length" or "the abridged version" could be used instead.