less compliant

USAGE SUMMARY

The term 'less compliant' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe something that is not as willing to obey rules or laws, or to indicate that someone is less likely to agree to a suggestion or request. For example: "The company has become less compliant with environmental regulations in recent years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They became less compliant with the government".

The New York Times

Simba the alsatian has proven less compliant, though.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They are less "aggressive", less "compliant" and less "withdrawn".

The Guardian

But its government faces a potentially less compliant opponent in the Muslim Brotherhood.

The New York Times

Emphasizing Persistent Vigilance Often, however, people are far less compliant, even when facing arrest.

The New York Times

Today, there are already signs that people are going to be less compliant.

The Guardian - Opinion

But the ride back there isn't pleasant for anyone larger or less compliant than grade-schoolers.

The New York Times

Eleven-year-old Michael is less compliant, and only the promise of a lollipop gets him out of bed.

The New York Times

This visual disparity only serves to undermine the Disney writers' continuing efforts to present more complex, less compliant heroines.

The Guardian - Film

Administrators can see aggregated data indicating, for instance, which units are more or less compliant with hand-hygiene protocols.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

There is another problem in that the same patients, once they feel better, tend to be less compliant in taking their medication.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "less compliant", consider the specific context. Choose a synonym if a more precise term better reflects the intended meaning, such as "less cooperative" or "more resistant".

Common error

Avoid using "less compliant" as a blanket term for all forms of non-conformity. It's important to distinguish between a lack of compliance due to resistance, inability, or other factors. Be specific to avoid misrepresentation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less compliant" functions primarily as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes something or someone that exhibits a reduced degree of adherence to a standard, rule, or expectation. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less compliant" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adjective phrase that describes a reduced adherence to rules, standards, or expectations. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans across various contexts, including news, science, and formal writing. While it's generally used in a neutral register, considering the specific context and choosing more precise synonyms like "less obedient" or "more resistant" can enhance clarity. When using "less compliant", avoid overgeneralization and be specific about the reasons behind the lack of compliance. With 63 examples found by Ludwig, it is safe to say that this expression is very common.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less obedient

Focuses more specifically on a reduction in following direct orders or commands.

less cooperative

Highlights a diminished willingness to work together or assist others.

less amenable

Emphasizes a reduced openness to suggestions or persuasion.

less acquiescent

Suggests a decreased tendency to accept something passively or without protest.

less submissive

Indicates a lower degree of yielding to the authority or will of others.

less tractable

Highlights a reduced ease of being managed or controlled.

less manageable

Focuses on a decreased ability to be handled or controlled effectively.

less disciplined

Indicates a reduced adherence to rules or a system of control.

more resistant

Highlights an increased opposition to influence or change.

more defiant

Emphasizes a bolder opposition to authority or expectations.

FAQs

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

You can use "less compliant" to describe individuals, systems, or materials that do not adhere to standards, rules, or expected behaviors. For example: "The new software was less compliant with the existing system" or "The patient became less compliant with the treatment regimen".

What are some alternatives to saying "less compliant"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "less obedient", "less cooperative", or "more resistant" to express a similar meaning.

Is it better to say "less compliant" or "non-compliant"?

"Less compliant" suggests a reduced degree of adherence, while "non-compliant" indicates a complete failure to comply. The best choice depends on the accuracy of the description. You can also explore alternatives as "minimally compliant".

What's the difference between "less compliant" and "less compatible"?

"Less compliant" refers to a failure or reduced willingness to adhere to rules or standards. "Less compatible" refers to a reduced ability to function together effectively. While something that is "less incompatible" could ultimately be related to compliance, the terms have different primary meanings.