less constructive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less constructive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe feedback, criticism, or actions that do not contribute positively to a situation or discussion. Example: "While some of the comments were helpful, others were less constructive and did not aid in resolving the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

It was less constructive, more casual".

The Guardian - Music

Again: less constructive, possibly closer to the truth.

The Guardian

Front-page stuff, and guaranteed to divert public attention from the "less constructive news items" - read "mayhem and carnage" - elsewhere in the region.

The Guardian - Books

Less constructive fires were stoked elsewhere: Taliban militants ambushed American-led coalition forces in Helmand Province, setting off a battle in which two dozen militants were killed.

The New York Times

"Wouldn't the government have to provide support for them in some other form – perhaps in a less constructive form when they have reduced hope for the future".

The Guardian

And the approach taken in the next stage of the negotiations could be less constructive than what has been seen so far.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

As mothers, fathers and mentors, we have to teach our girls these values -- they're not likely to stumble on them on their own while being bombarded by other less-constructive messages from the world around them.

Huffington Post

The potential reduction of the environmental impacts of the case study has been calculated substituting the whole actual network by less impacting constructive solutions.

Journal of Cleaner Production

This means that progress in philosophy is gained less from constructive solutions to problems than through therapeutic dissolution of their causes, that is, through the invention of new vocabularies by the launch of new and fruitful metaphors.

SEP

It would be reassuring if any one of these candidates felt confident pointing out how obviously this law would violate the U.S. Constitution and could use a word like, say, wrong or insane instead of calling the proposed bill something less than "constructive".

Huffington Post

Irish Republicans also did their bit, atoning, perhaps, for past, less-than-constructive IRA links to the rebels.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing feedback, if you find yourself using the phrase "less constructive", consider rephrasing your point to offer a specific suggestion for improvement, rather than simply stating what isn't working.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on phrases like "less constructive" when delivering critical feedback. Provide concrete examples and actionable steps to guide the recipient towards a more positive outcome. Vague criticism can be demoralizing and unhelpful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less constructive" functions as an adjective phrase, typically modifying nouns related to actions, feedback, or discussions. It serves to qualify the degree to which something contributes positively or aids in building or improving a situation. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less constructive" is a grammatically correct and commonly used adjective phrase that describes something lacking in positive contribution or helpfulness. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the expression is suitable for written English. It is frequently used in News & Media, Science, and Wiki contexts, with a neutral register making it appropriate for various situations. When using "less constructive", it's advisable to offer specific alternatives or suggestions for improvement to enhance clarity and avoid vagueness. Related phrases include "not as helpful", "less beneficial", and "counterproductive", providing options for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not as helpful

Emphasizes the reduced level of assistance or benefit provided.

less beneficial

Focuses on the diminished positive impact or advantage.

counterproductive

Highlights the negative effect of hindering progress.

unhelpful

Directly states the lack of assistance or support.

not useful

Indicates the absence of practical application or value.

detrimental

Stresses the harmful or damaging aspect.

ineffective

Highlights the failure to produce the desired result.

not productive

Focuses on the lack of positive output or results.

more damaging

Emphasizes the detrimental impact or harm caused.

rather unhelpful

Softens the statement while retaining the essence of the original phrase.

FAQs

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

You can use "less constructive" to describe feedback, actions, or suggestions that are not particularly helpful or positive. For example: "While some comments were helpful, others were "less constructive" and didn't aid in resolving the issue."

What's a better way to say "less constructive"?

Alternatives to "less constructive" include "not as helpful", "less beneficial", or even "counterproductive", depending on the context.

Is it always negative to say something is "less constructive"?

While "less constructive" implies a lack of positive contribution, it doesn't necessarily have to be overly negative. It can be a way to gently point out areas for improvement without being overly critical. However, always provide specific examples to make your feedback more actionable.

How does "less constructive" compare to "unhelpful"?

"Unhelpful" is a more direct and potentially blunt way of saying something isn't useful. "Less constructive" is a softer term that suggests something isn't contributing positively, but it might not be entirely useless. They are similar, but "less constructive" can be perceived as more diplomatic.