less conspicuous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'less conspicuous' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe something that is not easily noticed or observed. For example, "The thief tried to blend into the crowd by wearing less conspicuous clothing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Other works are less conspicuous.

The New York Times

But some technology consumption is less conspicuous.

MIT Technology Review

A minority undercover is less conspicuous.

The New York Times

But lawmakers can still steer money in less conspicuous ways.

The New York Times

Yet it didn't make them any less conspicuous.

The Guardian

Surely she should be wearing something less conspicuous?

The Guardian - Film

Less conspicuous was the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004.

The Guardian - Books

It is less conspicuous, he said, but more sure.

The New York Times

Its adjustment knobs are much smaller and less conspicuous.

The New York Times

Mao's image is less conspicuous here than it once was.

The New York Times - Arts

The Raven Mantel has had a less conspicuous history.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing methods of concealment or blending in, "less conspicuous" is useful to indicate a successful reduction in visibility.

Common error

Avoid using "less conspicuous" when you actually mean "more subtle" or "less obvious". Conspicuousness specifically relates to visibility and noticeability, not necessarily to the complexity or directness of something.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less conspicuous" functions primarily as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It serves to describe something as being less noticeable or visible. As supported by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less conspicuous" is a versatile adjective phrase used to describe something that is not easily noticed or observed. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in news media, science, and academic writing. It serves to indicate a reduction in visibility or attention-grabbing quality. When employing "less conspicuous", ensure you are specifically referencing visual or noticeable aspects, and consider alternatives such as "less noticeable" or "less evident" for nuances in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less noticeable

Emphasizes the reduced likelihood of being observed or detected.

less evident

Highlights the reduced clarity or obviousness.

less apparent

Focuses on the diminished visibility or understanding.

less obvious

Stresses the reduced ease of recognition or perception.

less prominent

Indicates a lower degree of standing out or being easily seen.

less striking

Focuses on a diminished impact or visual impression.

less detectable

Highlights the reduced possibility of being found or noticed.

more subtle

Emphasizes a quality of refinement and understatement.

more subdued

Indicates a quieter or more restrained appearance.

less blatant

Highlights the reduction of overt or obvious nature.

FAQs

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

You can use "less conspicuous" to describe something that is not easily noticed or observed. For instance, "The spy chose a "less conspicuous car" to avoid drawing attention."

What's the difference between "less conspicuous" and "less obvious"?

"Less conspicuous" refers specifically to something that is not easily seen or noticed visually. "Less obvious" implies something that is not easily understood or apparent, not necessarily relating to visual perception.

What are some alternatives to "less conspicuous"?

You can use alternatives such as "less noticeable", "less evident", or "less apparent" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "less conspicuous" instead of "more subtle"?

Use "less conspicuous" when you are specifically referring to something that is designed to not attract attention or is visually subdued. "More subtle" implies a delicate or understated quality that may not necessarily relate to visibility.