less active

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less active" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of reduced activity or engagement compared to another state or individual. Example: "After the injury, she became less active and preferred to stay indoors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Are people less active?

The New York Times - Health

I'm sure you can become less active.

The Guardian

Badgers are less active in winter.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Ms. Vinciarelli is even less active as an architect.

The New York Times

Mayorga of Nicaragua has been much less active.

The Guardian - Sport

(Needless to say, literary agents were less active then).

The New York Times - Books

Physically, I have become less active and pine for interaction.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Without it, you have less active and less informed citizens".

The New York Times

One behaved normally, but the other was markedly less active.

The Economist

During winters in warmer climates they simply become less active.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He tends to be less active — a conduit.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a change in someone's behavior or physical activity, use "less active" to clearly indicate a reduction in their level of engagement or physical exertion.

Common error

While "less active" is widely understood, consider using more precise alternatives like "sedentary" or "passive" in formal or scientific writing to provide a clearer and more nuanced description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less active" primarily functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a reduced level of activity. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is used to describe a state of reduced activity or engagement compared to another state or individual.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

34%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less active" is a grammatically correct and very common adjective phrase used to describe a reduced level of activity or engagement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely applicable across diverse contexts. While versatile, more precise alternatives such as "sedentary" or "passive" might be preferable in formal writing. The phrase is used in neutral register across diverse fields such as Science, News & Media and Wiki. For alternatives, consider using "more sedentary", "less energetic", or "less engaged" to suit specific needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more sedentary

Indicates a lifestyle with minimal physical activity.

less energetic

Focuses on the reduction of energy levels.

less lively

Emphasizes a decrease in vivacity and enthusiasm.

less engaged

Highlights a reduction in involvement or participation.

more passive

Suggests a shift toward inactivity and receptiveness.

less vigorous

Implies a decrease in intensity and strength of activity.

slower paced

Indicates a reduced rate of activity or progress.

more subdued

Highlights a decrease in intensity and excitement.

less responsive

Emphasizes a reduction in reaction or interaction.

more lethargic

Describes a state of sluggishness and inactivity.

FAQs

What does it mean to be "less active"?

Being "less active" refers to a state of reduced physical activity or engagement compared to a previous state or a general standard. It can apply to people, animals, or even processes.

What can I say instead of "less active"?

You can use alternatives like "more sedentary", "less energetic", or "less engaged" depending on the specific context.

How can I use "less active" in a sentence?

You can use "less active" to describe a change in behavior, such as "After the injury, she became less active". It can also describe a state, such as "Older adults are often less active than younger adults".

Is it better to say "less active" or "inactive"?

While both terms relate to a lack of activity, "less active" implies a reduction in activity compared to a previous state, whereas "inactive" suggests a complete absence of activity. The best choice depends on the specific situation you're describing.