less extensive than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less extensive than" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare the extent or scope of two things, indicating that one is not as extensive as the other. Example: "The new policy is less extensive than the previous one, focusing only on key areas of improvement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Archives|SELLING CONTINUES TO DEPRESS COTTON; Prices Lose 36 to 43 Points, but Liquidation Is Less Extensive Than on Wednesday.

The New York Times

SELLING CONTINUES TO DEPRESS COTTON; Prices Lose 36 to 43 Points, but Liquidation Is Less Extensive Than on Wednesday.

The New York Times

The court agreed to a "moderate" extension of the zone -- less extensive than the university had sought -- but declined to reduce the permitted number of demonstrators to 12, from 50.

The New York Times

Adjacent bone disease was less extensive than muscle disease, and, in most cases, subcutaneous stranding or extension was observed adjacent to the masses.

Duke University

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

The New York Times - Science

Blue on chest possibly less extensive than in males (Howell and Webb 1995).

Cornell University

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

The New York Times - Health

The breach will eventually turn out to have been less extensive than at first feared.

Independent

[n8] The powers thus delegated are far less extensive than those sustained in Bowles v. Willingham, supra, pp. 512-515.

Cornell University

It is less extensive than many New England sites, but also has updates on grasses and wildflowers.

The New York Times - Travel

Even so, many Brazilians say the decorations are less extensive than in the run-ups to other World Cups.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two things using "less extensive than", ensure that both items are clearly defined to provide a meaningful comparison for your reader.

Common error

Avoid using "less extensive than" when you actually mean "different from". Extensiveness refers to scope or range, not to inherent qualities or types.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less extensive than" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It's used to indicate that one thing has a smaller scope, range, or degree compared to another. Ludwig AI examples illustrate its use in comparing physical damage, the scope of studies, or the intensity of feelings.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

34%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "less extensive than" is a common and grammatically sound comparative phrase used to indicate that something is smaller in scope, range, or degree compared to something else. As shown by Ludwig AI, it appears frequently in diverse contexts, including News & Media, Academia, and Science. It is deemed correct and is suitable for formal and informal writing. When using "less extensive than", make sure to clearly define the items you are comparing to facilitate comprehension. Alternative phrases such as ""more limited than"" or ""not as comprehensive as"" can be used to provide variety and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less considerable than

Emphasizes a smaller degree or amount in terms of importance or impact.

less substantial than

Highlights a smaller quantity or strength of something.

not as comprehensive as

Focuses on the completeness or thoroughness of something.

more limited than

Highlights restrictions or constraints, suggesting a narrower scope.

less broad than

Emphasizes a smaller range or scope.

less widespread than

Indicates a smaller distribution or prevalence.

less vast than

Highlights a smaller scale or expanse.

less intensive than

Emphasizes a lower level of effort or concentration.

less exhaustive than

Highlights a smaller level of detail or thoroughness.

less detailed than

Emphasizes a lack of specific information or elaboration.

FAQs

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

You can use "less extensive than" to compare the scope or range of two things. For example, "The damage was "less extensive than" initially feared."

What's a good alternative to "less extensive than"?

Alternatives include "more limited than", "not as comprehensive as", or "less detailed than", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "not as extensive as" instead of "less extensive than"?

Yes, "not as extensive as" is a grammatically correct and semantically similar alternative to "less extensive than". Both phrases are used to compare the scope or range of two items.

Which is more formal, "less extensive than" or "not as extensive as"?

Both "less extensive than" and "not as extensive as" are suitable for formal and informal contexts. The choice depends on personal preference and the overall tone of the writing.