less authoritative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less authoritative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has a lower level of authority or command compared to something else. Example: "The new policy is less authoritative than the previous one, allowing for more flexibility in decision-making."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Am I less authoritative when I'm naked?

The New Yorker

Thile lowered his strings, which gives him a sweeter but less authoritative tone than Monroe's.

The New Yorker

All other things being equal, people seem to regard shorter men as less authoritative.

The New Yorker

But the results of those investigations are often less authoritative than those with better data.

The New York Times

'In drama, we've tried to achieve a more contemporary, less authoritative approach,' he said.

The Guardian

Research has found that pregnant women are perceived as "less authoritative and more irrational, regardless of their actual performance".

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

As patient views can be manipulated, and may be informed by less than authoritative sources, it is important for family physicians to be conscious of these forces on their practice patterns.

BMC Family Practice

Yes, it's a daft comparison, but that's the point: where Morris was avuncular, Attenborough has never, ever been anything less than authoritative.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

His study, which tried to predict the state of technology by 2020, listed a margin of error on its estimates of 10 to 30percentt, which made its conclusions less than authoritative.

The New York Times

"It certainly involves big changes in styles and skills from academics, who are less the authoritative providers of knowledge and must become more like learning coaches and mentors for their students," says Boxall.

The Guardian

Good news for Liverpool fans: Javier Mascherano is in the squad to face little-known Debrecen in the Champions League (despite his less than authoritative start to the season following the dalliance with Barcelona, that is good news, right?) and PNE have let Sean St Ledger go out on loan to Boro.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for a collaborative or inclusive tone, using "less authoritative" can soften directives and foster a sense of shared decision-making.

Common error

Avoid using "less authoritative" in situations requiring clear, direct commands or instructions; opt for terms that convey necessary guidance without undermining authority.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less authoritative" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a lower degree of authority. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound. Examples show it describing sources, voices, and approaches.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less authoritative" is a grammatically correct and commonly used adjective phrase that describes a reduction in influence, control, or credibility. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples across various contexts. Primarily found in news and media, as well as scientific publications, this phrase can be used to soften statements or to indicate a shift in approach. While it maintains a neutral tone, writers should exercise caution in formal settings, ensuring it aligns with the desired level of directness and clarity. Consider alternatives such as "not as commanding" or "more lenient" depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not as commanding

Implies a reduced level of direct control or command.

less commanding

Similar to "not as commanding" but with a slightly different emphasis on the act of commanding.

more lenient

Suggests a gentler or more permissive approach, lacking strict enforcement.

weaker influence

Focuses on the reduced impact or sway over others.

diminished influence

Emphasizes the lessening of impact or sway.

reduced power

Highlights a decrease in the ability to exert control or influence.

less forceful

Suggests a reduction in strength or assertiveness.

more subdued

Indicates a more restrained or muted presence, lacking forcefulness.

not as assertive

Highlights a decrease in self-assuredness and confidence.

more yielding

Indicates a greater willingness to compromise or give way to others' opinions.

FAQs

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

You can use "less authoritative" to describe something that has reduced influence or command. For example, "The new guidelines are "less authoritative" than the previous ones, allowing for greater flexibility."

What are some alternatives to saying "less authoritative"?

Some alternatives include "not as commanding", "more lenient", or "weaker influence", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "less authoritative" in formal writing?

While "less authoritative" is grammatically correct, consider the specific tone and context. In some formal situations, a more direct or precise term might be preferable to avoid ambiguity.

What's the difference between "less authoritative" and "less authoritarian"?

"Less authoritative" implies a reduction in influence or command, while "less authoritarian" suggests a reduction in strict, controlling power. The choice depends on whether you're emphasizing influence or control.