less constrained

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less constrained" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, environment, or condition that allows for more freedom or flexibility compared to another. Example: "In a less constrained environment, creativity can flourish and innovative ideas can emerge."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Again, the more constrained one variable is, the less constrained the other is.

The Guardian

"I'm going to be less constrained.

The Guardian

On Twitter the buzz was less constrained.

The Guardian - Music

"We are less constrained by NSA's concerns about compliance".

The Guardian

A few decades back, the engineers were less constrained.

The New York Times - Science

A male sensibility is less constrained in certain ways.

The New Yorker

Now less constrained, many others are joining in.

The Economist

A committee of members of Parliament was less constrained.

The Economist

Even those who feel less constrained remain vague.

The Economist

While Spacey has evaded endorsing a presidential candidate, Campbell feels less constrained.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Outsiders could sometimes take bigger risks, because they were less constrained by the burdens of representation.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a situation where innovation is desired, use "less constrained" to indicate an environment where creativity can flourish due to fewer limitations.

Common error

Avoid using "less constrained" when you actually mean "completely unrestricted". "Less constrained" implies some limitations still exist, whereas "unrestricted" suggests total freedom.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less constrained" primarily functions as an adjectival modifier, describing something that experiences fewer limitations or restrictions. Ludwig examples show it used to modify entities ranging from artists and systems to governments and individuals.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "less constrained" is a versatile adjectival modifier, indicating a reduction in limitations or restrictions. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts. It finds frequent use in "News & Media" and "Science", suggesting a neutral register suitable for formal writing. While alternatives like "more flexible" or "less restricted" exist, "less constrained" effectively conveys a state of increased freedom, making it useful for describing situations where limitations are reduced but not entirely absent. Remember to avoid using it when "unrestricted" is the more accurate descriptor.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more flexible

This highlights the ability to adapt and change, emphasizing adaptability rather than the absence of limitations.

more unrestricted

This suggests a complete absence of restrictions, carrying a stronger implication of freedom compared to the query.

less regulated

This emphasizes the absence of rules and controls, specifically in a formal or institutional setting, thus narrowing the scope.

more liberated

This implies a release from previous constraints, often emotional or social, giving it a different connotation than the original phrase.

less inhibited

This focuses on a decrease in self-consciousness or restraint in behavior, which is a more personal and psychological type of constraint.

more relaxed

This focuses on a reduction in tension or strictness, which is a more specific type of constraint than the general sense of the query.

more unbound

This suggests freedom from physical or metaphorical ties, often implying a dramatic or forceful release.

more unencumbered

This implies freedom from burdens or obstacles, adding a sense of lightness or ease that isn't explicitly in the original phrase.

more autonomous

This focuses on independence and self-governance, adding a dimension of control that isn't necessarily present in the original phrase.

less formal

This highlights a reduction in formality and rigidity, which can be related to constraints but emphasizes a specific aspect of social interaction.

FAQs

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

You can use "less constrained" to describe situations where something or someone experiences fewer limitations. For example: "The artist felt "less constrained" when working with abstract art."

What's a good alternative to "less constrained"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "more flexible", "less restricted", or "more unrestricted".

Is it better to say "less constrained" or "more free"?

While both phrases suggest a reduction in limitations, "less constrained" implies that some constraints may still exist. "More free" suggests a greater degree of liberty.

What does "less constrained" mean in a scientific context?

In science, "less constrained" often refers to variables or systems that have fewer limitations or parameters affecting their behavior. This can lead to greater variability or more complex outcomes.