less explicit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less explicit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the clarity or directness of two statements or pieces of information, indicating that one is not as clear or detailed as the other. Example: "The author's later works are often less explicit in their themes compared to his earlier novels."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Others are less explicit.

The New York Times - Travel

The plan was to feature less explicit sex.

The New York Times

Newer shows on broadcast networks are less explicit.

The New York Times - Arts

Hostility can be less explicit with disability hate crime.

The Guardian

Others use less explicit, but equally discriminatory, formulas.

The Economist

(A less explicit cut is being prepared for a possible Chinese release).

The New York Times

The vote contained a less explicit but equally powerful appeal to Mr. Ashcroft for moderation.

The New York Times

In the end, American audiences saw far less explicit imagery than their European and Arabic counterparts.

The New York Times - Arts

Environmentalism is more or less explicit in such crowd pleasers as "The Lorax" by Dr. Seuss.

The New York Times - Books

The current version can be found in a single document with fewer, less explicit attainment targets.

The Guardian

He's getting it from both ends here, although Morkel's attack is less explicit than Steyn.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for subtlety in writing, use "less explicit" to convey information indirectly, allowing the reader to infer meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "less explicit" excessively in highly formal or technical writing where precision is paramount. Opt for more direct and specific language to minimize ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less explicit" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying nouns or pronouns to indicate a reduced degree of directness or clarity. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's commonly used to compare the level of detail or openness in different statements or pieces of information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

36%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less explicit" is a versatile comparative adjective phrase used to indicate a reduced level of directness or clarity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used. Its applications span diverse fields like news, science, and business, where it serves to express nuance or subtlety. While a common and accepted phrase, it is advisable to favour precision in formal writing. Semantically related alternatives include "more ambiguous", "less direct", and "more subtle". Overall, understanding the appropriate context for "less explicit" enhances effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less direct

Indicates a reduced level of straightforwardness in communication.

less clear

Indicates a lack of clarity or precision in expression.

less straightforward

Highlights a reduced level of simplicity and ease of understanding.

less specific

Indicates a reduced level of detail and precision.

more implicit

Suggests that something is implied rather than directly stated.

more ambiguous

Expresses a greater degree of uncertainty and openness to interpretation.

more subtle

Implies a greater degree of refinement and indirectness.

less defined

Implies a lack of clear boundaries or specifications.

less obvious

Suggests that something is not immediately apparent or easily noticed.

more understated

Suggests a deliberate lack of emphasis or expressiveness.

FAQs

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

You can use "less explicit" to describe something that is not stated directly or is implied rather than openly expressed. For instance, "The later version of the policy was "less explicit" about the consequences of non-compliance".

What are some alternatives to saying "less explicit"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "more ambiguous", "less direct", or "more subtle".

Is it better to be explicit or "less explicit" in communication?

It depends on the situation. Being explicit ensures clarity and avoids misunderstandings, while being "less explicit" can be useful when tact or subtlety is required.

What is the difference between "less explicit" and "less clear"?

"Less explicit" means that something is not stated directly but may be implied, while "less clear" indicates that something is difficult to understand. Something can be "less explicit" without necessarily being less clear, and vice versa.