less acceptable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less acceptable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not as acceptable as another option or standard. Example: "The proposed solution is less acceptable than the original plan due to its potential risks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Note that higher ratings on acceptability question mean that the behavior was deemed to be less acceptable.

Nature

Side effects are therefore less acceptable.

The Economist

Now, that's a much less acceptable option.

The New York Times

(Pen Names are permitted, but they're less acceptable).

The New York Times

"But the price of that credit is somewhat less acceptable".

The New York Times

And with inequality rising, that rigidity seems less acceptable.

The Economist

Surprisingly, users indicated it was less acceptable than restrictiveness.

Omega

But that does not make the attack on him any less acceptable or sensible.

The Guardian - Opinion

Racism is less acceptable within grounds now, yet not stamped out completely.

The Guardian

Less acceptable, clearly, has been that much of it has been aimed at the captain.

The Guardian - Sport

But lately, "rock'n'roll" behaviour has become less acceptable simply because it's boring.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and the formality of the situation when using "less acceptable". In formal writing, use specific and precise language to convey the degree of unacceptability.

Common error

While "less acceptable" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or stiff in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "not as good" or "worse" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less acceptable" functions primarily as an adjective phrase. It modifies a noun, indicating a lower degree of approval or permissibility compared to another option or a general standard. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

33%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less acceptable" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed adjective phrase that denotes a reduced level of approval or suitability. Ludwig confirms the phrase's correctness and its prevalence in diverse contexts such as news, science, and academia. While versatile, it's advisable to consider simpler alternatives in informal settings to avoid sounding overly formal. When employing "less acceptable", ensure clear comparison points and specificity for maximum impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less satisfactory

Focuses on the degree to which something fails to meet expectations or requirements.

less tolerable

Emphasizes the reduced ability or willingness to endure something.

less admissible

Highlights a lower likelihood of being allowed or permitted, often in legal or formal contexts.

less palatable

Indicates something is less pleasing or agreeable, especially to the mind or senses.

less desirable

Focuses on the reduced attractiveness or appeal of something.

less suitable

Highlights the diminished appropriateness of something for a specific purpose or situation.

more questionable

Expresses a higher degree of doubt or uncertainty regarding the acceptability of something.

not as welcome

Indicates a reduced level of positive reception or acceptance.

less satisfactory

Focuses on a reduced degree of fulfillment or contentment.

not as good

Provides a general indication of reduced quality or desirability.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "less acceptable"?

You can use alternatives like "less satisfactory", "less tolerable", or "more questionable" depending on the context.

How to use "less acceptable" in a sentence?

"Less acceptable" is typically used to compare the degree to which something is considered permissible or suitable. For example: "The proposed solution is "less acceptable" than the original plan."

Which is correct, "less acceptable" or "fewer acceptable"?

"Less acceptable" is used with uncountable nouns (e.g., behavior, risk). "Fewer acceptable" would be used with countable nouns (e.g., options, solutions), though it's less common to frame acceptability in terms of quantity.

What's the difference between "less acceptable" and "unacceptable"?

"Less acceptable" indicates a comparative degree of permissibility, implying it's not as good or desirable. "Unacceptable" means it is not permissible or allowable at all.