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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.
Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
less busy
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"less busy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that has fewer people or activities than before; for example, "The office has been less busy since some of the employees took their summer holidays."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Academia
Wiki
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
Retail businesses may need to schedule this when the location is less busy.
Wiki
Less busy.
News & Media
Convenient and sometimes less busy than Wegmans.
Academia
No less busy is the choreography.
News & Media
One hopes they're less busy now.
News & Media
Less busy areas are patrolled by car.
News & Media
Pace yourself, take breaks and visit smaller, less busy temples.
News & Media
"It's less busy than I expected it would be.
News & Media
Hobbies He claims to be less busy than he seems.
News & Media
He had never known anyone demonstrably less busy.
News & Media
The screen layout is far less busy now.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing business schedules or events, specify the context in which something is "less busy". This adds clarity. For example, instead of saying "The store is less busy", specify "The store is less busy on weekday mornings".
Common error
Avoid using "less busy" without a clear comparison point. Saying something is "less busy" implies it was busier before, or is busier at other times. Without this context, the statement loses its meaning.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "less busy" primarily functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun by indicating a reduced state of activity or occupation. As shown by Ludwig, this construction effectively conveys a relative difference in busyness.
Frequent in
News & Media
65%
Academia
15%
Wiki
10%
Less common in
Formal & Business
5%
Science
3%
Reference
2%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "less busy" is a versatile and commonly used adjective phrase that indicates a reduction in activity or occupation. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and can be used effectively in various contexts. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media, academia, and wiki sources. When using "less busy", it's important to provide a clear comparison point to avoid vagueness. Ludwig examples show various context of usage and semantically similar alternatives such as "quieter", "less hectic", or "more free time" can be used to convey similar meanings depending on the specific nuance you want to emphasize. Overall, "less busy" is a reliable and straightforward way to describe a reduced level of activity.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
less hectic
Emphasizes a reduction in chaotic or rushed activity, highlighting a calmer pace.
not as crowded
Highlights the absence of a large number of people, emphasizing spaciousness and ease of movement.
quieter
Implies a reduction in noise and activity, focusing on a more peaceful environment.
less demanding
Emphasizes a reduction in the requirements or expectations placed on someone or something.
more relaxed
Suggests a decrease in stress and pressure, emphasizing a more comfortable state.
more manageable
Suggests that tasks or responsibilities are easier to handle and control.
slower-paced
Focuses on the tempo of activity, indicating a more leisurely or unhurried rhythm.
off-peak
Indicates a time period when activity is at its lowest, often used in commercial contexts.
more free time
Focuses on an increase in available personal time, indicating fewer obligations.
with reduced workload
Specifically refers to a decrease in professional responsibilities and tasks.
FAQs
How can I use "less busy" in a sentence?
What are some alternatives to "less busy"?
Alternatives to "less busy" include "quieter", "more relaxed", or "less hectic", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.
Which is correct, "less busy" or "fewer busy"?
"Less busy" is the correct phrase. "Less" is used with uncountable nouns and abstract concepts like "busyness", while "fewer" is used with countable nouns. You can also say "not as busy".
What's the difference between "less busy" and "more free time"?
"Less busy" describes a reduction in activity or obligations. "More free time" focuses on an increase in available personal time. While related, they emphasize different aspects of having fewer demands on one's time.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested