less crafty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less crafty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is not as skilled or clever in a particular context, often relating to deceit or cunning. Example: "While the first plan was quite elaborate, the second one was less crafty and more straightforward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Brown is the "weaker" and less crafty of the two.

The New Yorker

It is more retiring and less crafty than the red fox, and unlike other foxes it commonly climbs trees.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If his portrayal of Mr. Berg is more natural, and less crafty, than that of Mr. Lauda, it involved research nonetheless.

The New York Times

No less crafty or calculated than their bump-and-grind numbers, the farewell songs are a move toward expanding the franchise.

The New York Times

But if Hedda cannot reveal to us the foundations of her anger, how can she convince us that she is more than a spiteful child, adept only at making the less crafty around her uncomfortable?

The New Yorker

Indeed, from piggybacking lads to kids in wheelbarrows and the usual stilt walkers, many have found crafty ways to avoid the earth beneath their feet (even as this less crafty type has only just about avoided breaking his ankle).

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

At the same moment, the publishing industry, still afloat but listing, turns to the less charismatic but crafty eye of the writer Dan Brown to sail it back to safety.

The New Yorker

"The documents clearly show that Khomeini was less heroic, and far craftier, behind the scenes," Fattahi said.

The Guardian

Kickstarter may just have found a posterboy less whitebread than Zach Braff: crafty, creative, adaptable Morph.

The Guardian - Film

Others, while perhaps more crafty, are far less principled, and will go so far as to fabricate a silicone crutch to rest their hand on.

TechCrunch

With all of those egregious color tablets and strange kit contents, you may be less than thrilled about getting crafty.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing character traits, use "less crafty" to indicate a lack of cunning or manipulation, ensuring your language accurately reflects the intended level of subtlety or directness.

Common error

Avoid using "less crafty" when you simply mean "less skilled" at a particular task. "Crafty" specifically refers to cunning and manipulation, not general competence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less crafty" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun by indicating a reduced degree of cunning, skill or artfulness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Encyclopedias

17%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less crafty" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon expression used to describe a reduced level of cunning or manipulation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While suitable for general descriptive purposes, it's particularly prevalent in news and media contexts. Remember to use it when accurately conveying a lack of deviousness, and consider alternatives like "less cunning" or "more direct" for nuanced expression. Be mindful of its specific connotations to avoid misapplication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less cunning

Direct synonym replacement, emphasizing the lack of slyness.

less sly

Similar to "less cunning", focusing on the absence of trickery.

less devious

Highlights the reduced level of underhandedness or deceit.

less artful

Indicates a lack of skillful manipulation or cleverness.

less ingenious

Emphasizes the absence of clever or inventive thinking.

more straightforward

Suggests a direct and honest approach, lacking in guile.

more direct

Similar to "more straightforward", highlighting honesty and lack of manipulation.

less manipulative

Focuses on the absence of controlling behavior or influence.

less scheming

Highlights a reduced inclination to plot or conspire.

less subtle

Indicates a lack of finesse or delicacy in approach.

FAQs

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

You can use "less crafty" to describe someone or something that exhibits fewer cunning or manipulative qualities. For example, "This approach is "more straightforward" and therefore, less crafty."

What are some alternatives to "less crafty"?

Alternatives to "less crafty" include "less cunning", "more direct", or "less devious", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "less crafty" or "not as crafty"?

"Less crafty" and "not as crafty" are generally interchangeable. However, "less crafty" can sound slightly more formal or concise in certain contexts.

What's the difference between "less crafty" and "less skilled"?

"Crafty" implies cunning, deception, and skillful manipulation, whereas "skilled" refers to general competence or expertise. Therefore, "less crafty" indicates a lack of cunning, while "less skilled" indicates a lack of expertise.