less diligent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less diligent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that shows a lower level of diligence or effort compared to another person or standard. Example: "While she was diligent in her studies, her brother was less diligent and often procrastinated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

The internet means that research can be subjected to unofficial, but no less diligent, scrutiny in a matter of days.

The Economist

If you have a no-deductible fire-insurance policy, you may be a little less diligent in clearing the brush away from your house.

The New Yorker

The only discouraging note was that effectiveness seemed to wane over time, possibly because women became less diligent in their use.

The New York Times

Many facilities provide disinfectant so clients can wipe down machinery, but they are often less diligent when it comes to exercise mats.

The New York Times

Ms. Swerdlow and other teachers said the lenient scoring on the new exams would allow teachers and students to be less diligent.

The New York Times

This is generally assumed to favour Labour, whose core supporters are less diligent than those of the Tories or Liberal Democrats in turning out at every opportunity.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Gladwell points out that all great sportspeople, performers and even computer programmers got in their 10,000 hours of practice in their particular art early in life, allowing them to shine while their less-diligent contemporaries were still grappling with the basics.

BBC

But even in Ms. Laurans' class his work was less than diligent.

The New York Times

Critics say the administration has been less than diligent in seeking public comment for this change as required by law.

The New York Times

Rape is historically difficult to prosecute, and county sheriffs and small-town police in rural jurisdictions are often less than diligent in the pursuit of the accused, who will invariably argue that the sex was consensual.

The New Yorker

It is also possible that Mr. Cohen, after receiving the Cole's final report, may himself decide to recommend disciplining any commanders found to have been less than diligent.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing levels of effort, ensure the context clearly defines what standard of diligence is being referenced. For example: "While both teams worked hard, the marketing team was "less diligent" in tracking their campaign results than the sales team."

Common error

Be specific when using "less diligent". Avoid vague statements like "He is "less diligent"", which lacks context. Instead, clarify what tasks or areas show a lack of diligence, such as "He is "less diligent" in proofreading his reports."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less diligent" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun by indicating a lower degree of diligence compared to a standard or another entity. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its use in various contexts, confirming its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

21%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less diligent" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase for indicating a lower level of effort or attention. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples across diverse contexts, predominantly in news and media, and scientific writing. To ensure clarity, specify the areas or tasks where diligence is lacking. When writing, remember that while being thorough is important, balance is key; there is a point at which extra effort adds less value.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not as diligent

Rephrasing using "not as" maintains a similar level of formality while directly negating the quality of diligence.

less conscientious

Highlights a reduced sense of moral responsibility or thoroughness.

more careless

Focuses on the negative aspect of lacking care, implying a potential for mistakes.

less assiduous

Implies a reduced level of persistent effort and attention.

not so thorough

Emphasizes the lack of completeness and attention to detail.

less attentive

Focuses on a decreased level of attentiveness and observation.

more lax

Indicates a more relaxed or lenient approach, potentially lacking rigor.

less painstaking

Emphasizes the reduced effort to avoid errors and ensure accuracy.

more remiss

Suggests a failure to fulfill a duty or responsibility.

more neglectful

Highlights a lack of proper care or attention, implying a disregard for responsibilities.

FAQs

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

You can use "less diligent" to describe someone or something that exhibits a lower level of effort or attention compared to a specific standard. For example, "The new employee was "less diligent" about meeting deadlines than his colleagues."

What's a more formal alternative to "less diligent"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "less conscientious" or "more remiss". These options convey a similar meaning with a slightly elevated level of formality.

What's the difference between "less diligent" and "less careful"?

"Less diligent" implies a reduced level of sustained effort and attention to detail over time, while "less careful" suggests a lack of caution or attention at a specific moment. Diligence is ongoing, carefulness is immediate.

What are some ways to encourage someone to be "less diligent"?

While it's generally not advisable to encourage a lack of diligence, you might consider suggesting a more balanced approach. Encourage focusing on high-priority tasks first and delegating where possible to avoid burnout from being too diligent on everything.