less famous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less famous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare the level of fame between two or more subjects, indicating that one is not as well-known as the other. Example: "While both authors are talented, the first one is less famous than the second."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Less famous.

The New York Times

Reading first doesn't mean you're less famous.

The New York Times

The Penguins' defensive corps is less famous.

The New York Times - Sports

The people behind the oysters are a lot less famous.

The New York Times - Travel

His good deeds for Quebec were less famous.

The Economist

Bowles was less famous than many of his visitors.

The New Yorker

I got less famous; she remained good-looking".

The Guardian - Books

Nor did Mr. Jean ignore his less famous fans.

The New York Times - Arts

Ford knew Remington's original paintings, less famous now, intimately.

The Guardian - Film

I slowly became less famous and less successful.

The Guardian

And it's the big names that can draw visitors back for less famous composers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing the fame of two entities, ensure the comparison is clear and contextually relevant. For example, "While both artists are talented, the first is "less famous" in international circles."

Common error

Avoid using "less famous" without specifying the relevant group or domain. Saying someone is "less famous" without context leaves the reader wondering compared to whom or in what area.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less famous" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun (explicitly stated or implied) to indicate a lower degree of fame relative to another entity. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's usability in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less famous" is a grammatically correct and frequently used comparative adjective phrase, as verified by Ludwig AI. It serves to compare the relative levels of recognition between entities, commonly appearing in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the comparison is clear and relevant to the intended audience. Alternatives like "not as well-known" or "less renowned" can provide similar meaning with slightly different nuances. Overall, it’s a versatile phrase with widespread applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not as famous

Simple variation using different order of words.

not as well-known

This alternative directly states a lower level of recognition compared to something else.

less renowned

This suggests a diminished reputation or acclaim.

less celebrated

This indicates a reduced level of public recognition and praise.

less prominent

This implies a lower level of visibility or importance in a particular field or context.

less recognized

This signifies a lower degree of identification or awareness by others.

of lower profile

This suggests a less conspicuous or attention-grabbing presence.

relatively unknown

This indicates that the subject is not widely familiar to people.

less in the public eye

Focuses on the reduced exposure to public attention.

not a household name

Implies that the person or thing is not widely known or recognized by the general public.

FAQs

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

You can use "less famous" to compare the relative recognition of two subjects. For instance, "Although both actors have talent, the first is "less famous" than the second."

What's a good alternative to "less famous"?

Alternatives include "not as well-known", "less renowned", or "relatively unknown" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "less famous than"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase "less famous than" is used to directly compare the fame of two different subjects. For example: "This band is "less famous" than that one."

What's the difference between "less famous" and "least famous"?

"Less famous" compares two subjects, while "least famous" identifies the subject with the lowest level of fame among a group of three or more.