less evasive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less evasive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing someone or something that is more straightforward or direct in communication or behavior compared to another. Example: "In the meeting, she was less evasive about her plans for the project, providing clear answers to all questions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

In his own way, McMurtry is no less evasive.

The New York Times - Books

Asked about her politics, she was less evasive, saying, "I would like to see the removal of the border and the establishment of a democratic Eire".

The New Yorker

With their unspotted records, these accomplished tricksters will most likely surpass their less evasive peers to become our success stories, our leaders.

The New York Times - Magazine

After administration of Tramal, there was better localization of the abdominal tenderness in 13 patients, and 11 patients were less evasive toward abdominal palpation.

International Journal of Emergency Medicine

In this study, in the tramadol group, there was better improvement in the abdominal palpation findings with respect to localization of area of inflammation and disposition of the patients to palpation; the patients were more comfortable and less evasive of abdominal palpation after injection of tramadol.

International Journal of Emergency Medicine

Rogan, whom she met with separately, was more diplomatic but no less evasive.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Less lyrical in his speech than Jesse Jackson, his contemporary and regular confidant, he is also less evasive - giving answers to questions that are asked rather than set speeches he has pre-prepared.

The Guardian

In fact I suspect it makes them sound more evasive, less open and less credible than if they just turned up and answered the questions honestly.

Independent

The provincial-level conferences criticized central policies less and were evasive about critical issues.

Wikipedia

In "My Elizabeth Bishop / (My Gertrude Stein)" McLane switches her undergraduate thesis from Stein, whose "fractured cubist grid I could not make out," to the also evasive but less opaque Bishop.

The New York Times - Books

When the rich feel forced to give, many will take evasive action and give less.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity in your writing, consider if using "less evasive" can be replaced with a more positive phrasing like "more direct" or "more transparent" to enhance the reader's understanding.

Common error

While "less evasive" is grammatically sound, its negative construction might sound weak in formal writing. Opt for stronger, positive alternatives such as "more direct" or "more forthcoming" to convey confidence and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less evasive" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun by indicating a reduced degree of evasiveness. It's used to describe a subject's behavior or communication as being more straightforward than before, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less evasive" is a grammatically correct and commonly used adjective phrase that describes a reduction in evasiveness or an increase in directness. Ludwig indicates that it is frequently used in News & Media and Science contexts. While suitable for various writing styles, consider using positively framed alternatives like "more direct" or "more transparent" for stronger impact, especially in formal settings. By considering the context and desired tone, you can effectively use "less evasive" to convey nuanced meaning in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more direct

Emphasizes straightforwardness rather than reducing evasiveness.

more forthcoming

Highlights a willingness to provide information, a subtle shift from avoiding evasion.

more transparent

Focuses on clarity and openness instead of the absence of evasiveness.

less ambiguous

Indicates clearer communication, reducing uncertainty rather than direct avoidance.

more candid

Stresses honesty and frankness, moving away from indirectness.

more straightforward

Emphasizes simplicity and directness in communication.

more open

Highlights accessibility and willingness to share information.

less indirect

Directly negates indirectness, a slightly more formal alternative.

more plainspoken

Focuses on clear and simple language, avoiding jargon or obfuscation.

more blunt

Highlights a directness that might lack subtlety or tact.

FAQs

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

You can use "less evasive" to describe someone or something that is more straightforward or direct in communication or behavior compared to another. For example: "The witness was "more direct" in their testimony, being "less evasive" than before".

What are some alternatives to "less evasive"?

Alternatives to "less evasive" include "more direct", "more forthcoming", "more transparent", or "less ambiguous", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "less evasive" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "less evasive" when comparing a subject's current behavior or communication style to a previous one, highlighting an improvement in directness. Using "more direct" is preferable in cases when there is no explicit comparison.

Is "less evasive" considered formal or informal language?

"Less evasive" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though in formal settings, stronger, positively framed alternatives like "more transparent" or "more candid" might be preferred for a more assertive tone.