less extensive

USAGE SUMMARY

The term "less extensive" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is less broad or less inclusive than something else. Example sentence: The damages from the hurricane were less extensive than originally predicted.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The interior renovations were less extensive.

The New York Times

How could anything less extensive transform a city's shape?

The New York Times - Arts

The thinking on gift cards is less extensive but has its place in that history.

The New York Times - Magazine

It is often less extensive than heart attacks showing q waves.

The New York Times - Science

Less extensive wardrobes of earlier eras went with the smaller closets typical of many older homes.

The New York Times

But this time around, the battleground is less extensive, the battle-lines less clear.

The Guardian

Her knowledge of the McCall Smith books was no less extensive.

The Guardian - Travel

Several more Palestinians were killed and injured yesterday, although the Israeli air strikes were less extensive.

The Guardian

And that coverage is somewhat less extensive than what would be required by the House bill.

The New York Times - Health

"When past evidence is less extensive, differences in opinions do show up".

The New York Times

But its sway was much less extensive: from time to time rates changed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "less extensive", consider the specific aspect you want to emphasize – size, scope, or comprehensiveness – and choose the most appropriate synonym if a more precise meaning is needed.

Common error

Avoid using "less extensive" when you mean "fewer". "Less extensive" refers to scope or degree, not countable items. For example, say "fewer resources" not "less extensive resources" if you are referring to a number of resources.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less extensive" primarily functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying nouns to indicate a reduced degree of extension, scope, or comprehensiveness. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less extensive" is a versatile adjective phrase used to indicate a reduced scope, size, or comprehensiveness. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Its frequent appearance in scientific, news, and encyclopedic sources underscores its appropriateness in formal and neutral contexts. When writing, remember that "less extensive" refers to scope rather than countable items, and consider synonyms like "more limited" or "narrower in scope" for greater precision. By following these guidelines, you can confidently and accurately use "less extensive" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more limited

Emphasizes a restriction in scope or quantity.

smaller in scale

Focuses on the size or magnitude of something.

narrower in scope

Highlights a reduced range or breadth.

reduced in size

Specifically refers to a decrease in physical dimensions.

less comprehensive

Indicates a lack of thoroughness or completeness.

less thorough

Focuses on the level of detail and completeness.

less exhaustive

Suggests that something is not as complete or detailed.

more superficial

Implies a lack of depth or thoroughness.

abbreviated

Refers to a shortened or condensed version.

curtailed

Suggests a reduction or limitation, often abruptly.

FAQs

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

You can use "less extensive" to describe something that is smaller in scope, range, or detail. For example, "The damage was "less extensive" than initially feared" or "The new plan involves a "less extensive" review process".

What can I say instead of "less extensive"?

You can use alternatives like "more limited", "smaller in scale", or "narrower in scope", depending on the context.

Which is correct, "less extensive" or "fewer extensive"?

"Less extensive" is correct. "Fewer" is used for countable nouns, while "less" is used for uncountable nouns or qualities. "Extensive" describes a quality or scope, so "less extensive" is the appropriate choice.

What's the difference between "less extensive" and "less intensive"?

"Less extensive" refers to something being smaller in scope or range, while "less intensive" refers to something requiring less effort or energy. For example, a "less extensive" investigation covers fewer areas, while a "less intensive" workout requires less physical exertion.