it seems less

USAGE SUMMARY

"it seems less" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use the phrase when you are comparing two facts and one of them appears to be lesser than the other. For example: "John has been studying for five hours, but Peter seems to have been studying for less."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

It seems less ridiculous now.

The Economist

It seems less hostile somehow.

The New Yorker

(Still, it seems less like prizefighting).

The New Yorker

But it seems less assured lately.

The New York Times

But it seems less convenient.

MIT Technology Review

These days, it seems less absurd.

The Guardian

It seems less sumptuous but more elegant.

The New York Times - Food

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Therefore, it seems less likely that nuclear influx during differentiation is for the loading of zinc fingers.

Plosone

If a job in a big organisation can so easily disappear, it seems less attractive.

The Economist

Because of Tau's chronic accumulation after various CNS insults, it seems less useful as an acute head trauma marker.

Clinical Proteomics

It seems less clever in today's economic doldrums.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two scenarios, ensure clarity by explicitly stating what "it" refers to. For instance, "Now that I've gained experience, it seems less daunting than before."

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by ensuring the subject of "it" is clearly defined in the context. If the subject is unclear, rewrite the sentence for clarity. For instance, instead of "It seems less concerning", specify "The side effects seem less concerning."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it seems less" functions as a qualifier, expressing a subjective perception of decrease. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and usable in English. It indicates a reduced quality, quantity, or likelihood compared to a previous state or another entity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it seems less" is a versatile phrase used to express a perceived reduction in some quality, quantity, or likelihood. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is most commonly found in News & Media and scientific contexts, exhibiting a neutral register. To ensure effective use, pay close attention to the clarity of the subject "it" and ensure that it clearly relates to its immediate context. By using "it seems less" carefully, you can express nuanced opinions and soften claims in various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it seems diminished

Synonymous, stressing a reduction in a non-tangible attribute.

it appears diminished

This emphasizes a visual or perceived decrease, focusing on appearance rather than certainty.

it feels reduced

Focuses on a subjective sensation of decrease, rather than an objective assessment.

it looks smaller

Emphasizes a visual reduction in size or scope.

it presents weaker

Focuses on the apparent strength or quality of something.

it gives less impression

Highlights a weaker impact or effect.

it's not as likely

Shifts the focus to probability and likelihood.

it strikes as weaker

Describes an impact that is considered less strong.

it lacks impact

Emphasizes a deficiency in influence or consequence.

it conveys less

Focuses on the diminishing quality in what is being communicated or shown.

FAQs

How can I use "it seems less" in a sentence?

Use "it seems less" to express a perceived reduction in quality, intensity, or likelihood. For example, "After the revisions, "it seems less confusing"" or "Now that I understand the process, "it seems less difficult"".

What's a good alternative to "it seems less"?

Alternatives include phrases like "it appears diminished", "it feels reduced", or "it seems diminished", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it seems less" formal or informal?

"It seems less" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its neutrality allows for use in varied registers, though overly formal situations may benefit from alternatives that heighten the level of expression, depending on the overall tone.

Is it ever incorrect to use "it seems less"?

While generally correct, ensure that the subject "it" is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Also, be mindful of the specific context to ensure the phrase accurately reflects the intended meaning. Sometimes, a more precise word may be more appropriate.