less efficient

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less efficient" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation or process that is not as efficient, or effective, as it once was. For example: "This machine used to be very efficient, but its performance has decreased and it is now less efficient than it used to be."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We were less efficient.

The New York Times - Health

They are slightly less efficient than derailleurs.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This makes the state less efficient.

The Economist

But it is also less efficient.

The Economist

This makes the labor market less efficient.

The New Yorker

In particular, the market became less efficient.

The Economist

Batteries are much less efficient.

The Guardian

Otherwise, we're just less efficient".

The Guardian

Less efficient was West Brom's defending.

The Guardian - Sport

Vertical motion is far less efficient.

The New York Times - Magazine

Moscow might be less efficient than Beijing.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two systems, clearly specify the metrics being used to measure efficiency to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify whether you are discussing cost efficiency, time efficiency, or energy efficiency.

Common error

Be specific about what makes something "less efficient". Instead of simply stating "the new process is less efficient", explain which aspect of the process has become less efficient, such as time, cost, or resource utilization.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less efficient" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun, indicating that something possesses a lower degree of efficiency than something else or than its previous state. Ludwig's examples show this in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "less efficient" is a versatile comparative adjective phrase used to indicate a reduction in effectiveness, productivity, or economy. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalence across various contexts, from news and media to scientific and encyclopedic sources. When using "less efficient", it's crucial to specify the aspects of efficiency being compared and avoid overgeneralizations to ensure clarity. Alternatives such as "not as efficient", "suboptimal", and "less productive" can provide nuanced ways to express reduced efficiency. Overall, understanding the grammatical function, communicative purpose, and common errors associated with "less efficient" allows for precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not as efficient

Emphasizes a comparison to a previous or expected level of efficiency.

suboptimal

Highlights that the performance is below the ideal standard or expectation.

not very effective

Focuses on the reduced ability to produce the desired outcome or result.

less productive

Indicates a lower output or accomplishment compared to previous or potential levels.

wasteful

Emphasizes the unnecessary consumption of resources, leading to reduced efficiency.

uneconomical

Highlights the financial aspect of reduced efficiency, indicating higher costs.

poorly performing

Focuses on the inadequate execution or operation of a process or system.

underperforming

Indicates a failure to meet expected or potential performance standards.

sluggish

Implies a slow or inactive pace, leading to reduced efficiency.

cumbersome

Highlights the difficulty and complexity that reduces efficiency.

FAQs

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

Use "less efficient" to describe something that performs with reduced effectiveness compared to a previous state or an alternative. For example: "The old engine was reliable, but the new model is "less efficient" in terms of fuel consumption."

What are some alternatives to saying "less efficient"?

Depending on the context, consider using alternatives like "suboptimal", "less productive", or "not as efficient".

Is it grammatically correct to say "less efficient"?

Yes, "less efficient" is grammatically correct. "Less" is used to compare non-countable nouns and adjectives, and "efficient" is an adjective that can be modified by "less".

What's the difference between "less efficient" and "inefficient"?

"Less efficient" indicates a comparative reduction in efficiency, while "inefficient" describes something that is inherently not efficient. Something that is "less efficient" was perhaps more efficient at some point. "Inefficient" systems usually are a bad design since their conception.