less constraining

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less constraining" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing two or more options, indicating that one option imposes fewer restrictions or limitations than another. Example: "The new policy is less constraining, allowing employees more flexibility in their work schedules."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

These new kinds of warfare seem likely to further empower the executive branch at a time when our nation no longer declares war, potentially making the War Powers Act seem even less constraining and thus more outdated.

The New York Times

Note that the greater the number of players, the less constraining the first condition becomes and the more constraining the latter will be.

SERIEs

The economy grew much faster during the PT years than during the eight-year mandate of President Fernando Henrique Cardoso of the PSDB, and a good deal of this was due to less constraining fiscal and monetary policy.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 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

A committee of members of Parliament was less constrained.

The Economist

Even those who feel less constrained remain vague.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing policy changes or comparing different approaches, use "less constraining" to highlight the increased freedom or flexibility resulting from a particular choice. This emphasizes the positive aspect of reduced limitations.

Common error

While "less constraining" is generally acceptable, be cautious about using it excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and nuanced vocabulary to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less constraining" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun by indicating a reduced level of restriction or limitation. Ludwig AI shows examples where it describes policies, environments, or conditions that offer greater freedom or flexibility.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less constraining" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a state of reduced limitation or restriction. Though Ludwig AI identifies its frequency as rare, it's prevalent in news, science, and business domains. It is used to compare scenarios, highlighting the benefits of increased freedom. Alternatives include "more flexible" and "less restrictive". When using "less constraining", aim for clarity and precision, particularly in formal contexts, and be mindful of the specific nuances you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less restrictive

Focuses specifically on the reduction of imposed rules or limitations.

less restrictive

Indicates the removal of some restrictions to allow for greater freedom.

less limiting

Highlights the decrease in the act of setting boundaries or constraints.

more flexible

Emphasizes an increase in adaptability and freedom from rigidity.

more permissive

Suggests greater allowance or tolerance, reducing strictness.

less inhibiting

Implies a reduction in factors that hinder or restrain action or expression.

more lenient

Focuses on reduced severity or strictness in judgment or treatment.

less stringent

Highlights a decrease in demanding or rigorous requirements.

more relaxed

Suggests a shift towards a more casual or less formal approach.

more accommodating

Focuses on adapting or adjusting to fit circumstances, showing less rigid adherence to rules.

FAQs

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

You can use "less constraining" to describe policies, rules, or environments that offer more freedom or flexibility. For example, "The new regulations are "less constraining" than the previous ones, allowing for more innovation."

What is a good alternative to "less constraining"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "less constraining" include "more flexible", "less restrictive", or "more permissive". Choose the alternative that best fits the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "less constraining" or "more freeing"?

Both "less constraining" and "more freeing" are valid, but they emphasize different aspects. "Less constraining" focuses on the reduction of limitations, while "more freeing" emphasizes the positive experience of gaining freedom. The better choice depends on the intended emphasis.

What does "less constraining" mean in the context of project management?

In project management, "less constraining" can refer to a project environment or methodology that allows for greater adaptability and innovation. It suggests that the project team has more autonomy and is "less restricted" by rigid processes or hierarchical control.