less ebullient

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less ebullient" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is not as enthusiastic or lively as before. Example: "After the disappointing news, her demeanor became less ebullient, and she spoke in a more subdued tone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Business

Encyclopedias

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Others were decidedly less ebullient.

The New York Times

General Franks was less ebullient a few days later.

The New York Times

Art fairs and dealers are suddenly a lot less ebullient.

The Guardian - Arts

And many cards — like this year — will feature less ebullient messages.

The New York Times

But at the rallies in Chattanooga and Green Bay, Mr. Bush had come across as slightly less ebullient than usual.

The New York Times

His companion on the front row seemed a little less ebullient than usual at David Cameron's right-hand side at Prime Minister's Questions at lunchtime.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

(Goodwin's enthusiasm is also obvious when, in the dying hours of the Orange prize party, she bursts into the room where I'm speaking to Kingsolver and announces she wants to "cover her with love!") Kingsolver is excited about her win, but less wildly ebullient – she flew in the day before the ceremony, and is set to fly out within hours.

The Guardian - Books

Viv earned approaching £200,000 from these accounts of her life, and although she slipped back to an extent into her free-spending ways, her sons settled her in a two-up, two-down terrace house in Castleford, where, while never less than ebullient, she was reunited with old friends and enjoyed taking round the Watchtower and similar Witness tracts.

The Guardian

Rather, this speech was workmanlike in its approach; more effective than ebullient; and less about change and more about choices.

The Guardian - Opinion

Another guest, Cassie Cole, the 30-something owner of an upscale pet accessory site called fabdog.com, welcomed the advent of a place that is less congested with the ebullient partiers who often inhabit other rooftop bars in New York.

The New York Times

His ebullient wife was less defeatist, and made sure I left a generous donation.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "less ebullient" to describe a noticeable decrease in someone's usual high spirits or energy. It's more nuanced than simply saying someone is "sad" or "unhappy".

Common error

While "less ebullient" is acceptable, avoid overuse in very formal writing. Opt for synonyms like "more subdued" or "less enthusiastic" in such contexts to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less ebullient" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It typically describes a person, their mood, or an environment, indicating a reduced level of enthusiasm or exuberance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Arts

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Sports

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less ebullient" is a grammatically sound and frequently used way to describe a reduction in enthusiasm or liveliness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and suitable for many contexts. While commonly found in news and media, arts, and encyclopedias, it's essential to consider the formality of your writing and choose synonyms like "more subdued" or "less enthusiastic" for very formal settings. Remember that it conveys a shift from a previously more vibrant state rather than simply indicating sadness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less enthusiastic

Direct synonym focusing on a decrease in enthusiasm.

more subdued

Focuses on a quieter, more restrained demeanor.

less exuberant

Synonym highlighting reduced overflowing energy.

less lively

Emphasizes a decrease in general activeness and spirit.

more restrained

Highlights a greater degree of self-control and reserve.

less animated

Focuses on reduced expressiveness and animation.

more muted

Highlights a quieter, softer tone or expression.

not as buoyant

Implies a reduction in cheerfulness and optimism.

less cheerful

Directly indicates a reduction in happiness.

more somber

Indicates a more serious and grave mood.

FAQs

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

You can use "less ebullient" to describe someone or something that is not as enthusiastic or lively as before. For example: "After the disappointing news, her demeanor became less ebullient, and she spoke in a more subdued tone."

What are some alternatives to "less ebullient"?

You can use alternatives like "less enthusiastic", "more subdued", or "less exuberant" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "less ebullient" suitable for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "less ebullient" might sound slightly informal for highly formal contexts. Consider using "more restrained" or "less animated" in such situations.

What's the difference between "less ebullient" and "sad"?

"Less ebullient" implies a decrease in someone's usual high spirits and energy, while "sad" indicates a state of unhappiness. Someone who is less ebullient isn't necessarily sad, but they are not as cheerful or energetic as usual.