less bulky than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less bulky than" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when comparing the size or weight of two objects, indicating that one is more compact or lighter than the other. For example, "This backpack is less bulky than the one I used last year." Alternative expressions include "more streamlined than," "more compact than," and "lighter than."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Vareniki are half-moon-shaped dumplings that are less bulky than pirogi.

The New York Times - Food

"They're less bulky" than Heelys, he said, "like a dance shoe with a boot for ankle support".

The New York Times - Arts

Looks wise, the PlayStation 4 has the edge - it is sleeker and less bulky than its rival.

Independent

It's less bulky than the PS3, too, and old hands will be relieved to know that the controller is significantly improved.

The Guardian - Tech

Giambi looked far less bulky than he did at times last season, when he belted 41 homers for the second season in a row.

The New York Times - Sports

Safer helmets will be mandatory starting in 2013 – and, as the agreement says, they will be "significantly less bulky" than prior versions.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Puffinus olsoni is characterized by a lower and less bulky skull than their relatives.

Plosone

The prototype it's showing is a lot less bulky and hideous than most people feared; the transparent screen is off to one side, not directly in front of your eye.

The New York Times

Not only is it less bulky and faster than copper; it generates virtually none of the electromagnetic interference that can make a copper wire behave like an antenna instead of a pipe (and create that annoying "cross-talk" often heard on phones).

Forbes

Fentanyl is far less bulky to import than heroin, and because you can buy it online and have it delivered to your doorstep in 48 hours, there's no need for smugglers to have the old school opium trail connections required to buy heroin.

Vice

This difficulty does not exist to the same extent in fractures of the upper extremity produced by direct injury, since the ties in this limb are less bulky and tense than in the leg, and, from the nature of things, spiral or torsion fractures are of comparatively rare occurrence in the humerus, radius or ulna, though they are not infrequent in the metacarpals.

Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing physical objects, ensure that the items being compared are clearly defined to provide context for the size or volume differences.

Common error

Avoid using "less bulky than" without specifying what the item is being compared to. Incomplete comparisons can lead to confusion and ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less bulky than" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun by indicating that it possesses a lower degree of bulkiness compared to another noun. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is commonly used to highlight a reduction in size or volume.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

37%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "less bulky than" is a common comparative adjective phrase used to describe an object or concept that is smaller in size or volume compared to another. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and used in a wide array of contexts, notably in News & Media and Scientific publications. When using "less bulky than", make sure to specify what is being compared to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "more streamlined than" or "more compact than" can provide nuances of meaning based on specific desired emphasis. The phrase maintains a neutral register and is applicable across diverse writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more compact than

Highlights space-saving aspects by emphasizing efficient arrangement of components within a confined area.

more streamlined than

Focuses on the sleekness and efficiency of design rather than pure size.

slimmer than

Specifically refers to reduced width or thickness, emphasizing a sleek profile.

less cumbersome than

Focuses on ease of use and handling by indicating reduced awkwardness or inconvenience.

lighter than

Concentrates on the reduced weight, implying easier portability or handling.

more trim than

Suggests tidiness and neatness in shape, conveying a sense of elegance.

smaller than

General term for diminished dimensions in any direction.

not as massive as

Underlines a significant reduction in overall size and weight.

more diminutive than

Emphasizes a notably smaller size, often suggesting a charming or delicate quality.

more featherweight than

Implies extreme lightness, almost negligible weight.

FAQs

How can I use "less bulky than" in a sentence?

Use "less bulky than" to compare the size or volume of two items, indicating that one is more compact or takes up "less space". For example, "This new phone is less bulky than my old one".

What can I say instead of "less bulky than"?

You can use alternatives like "more streamlined than", "more compact than", or "slimmer than" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "less bulky than"?

It's appropriate when you want to highlight the difference in size or volume between two objects, emphasizing that one is more compact and potentially easier to handle or store than the other. It is not appropriate if something is heavier, but takes up "more space".

What's the difference between "less bulky than" and "more streamlined than"?

"Less bulky than" focuses on the physical size or volume, while "more streamlined than" emphasizes a sleeker design that reduces resistance or improves efficiency. A device can be less bulky without being particularly streamlined, and vice versa.