less firmly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less firmly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is held or expressed with less strength or intensity than usual. Example: "She held the fragile vase less firmly, afraid it might slip from her grasp."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Less firmly, so had the Kuwaitis, victims of Iraq in 1990.

The Economist

But Ms. Mutter seemed to hold this conviction less firmly than Mr. Orkis.

The New York Times - Arts

Styles are less firmly defined; social arrangements are more fluid; human aspirations vary widely.

The New York Times - Arts

American policy has been more or less firmly committed to the first view: keep our eye on the nukes.

The New York Times

Western Europe evolved from a "Community" to a "Union", and its states became less firmly bound to American protection.

The Guardian - Opinion

But Ms. Shemy looks to be moving into more enigmatic territory, orchestrating these battles less firmly and letting dreamy pockets open up within the sometimes brutal action.

The New York Times - Arts

But Callahan benefits more, simply because his early experimental efforts are less firmly planted in the New York art mythos than Pollock's.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Democracy itself is less than firmly anchored here.

The New York Times

Nevertheless, the IoT device class is expanding at a fast clip and is more or less now firmly in the mainstream.

The Guardian - Tech

That February stretch included five 20-10 performandes and a 30-point, 12-rebound demolition of the Houston Rockets – gaudy totals for any player, much less one firmly entrenched in a limited role just weeks earlier.

The New York Times

The fewness of the years helps to explain why the world policeman has not always had an easy time of it, why so many of America's postwar doctrines, principles and theories have turned out, at the dog's end of a foolish war or humiliating intervention, to be less than firmly grounded.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "less firmly" to express a nuanced degree of conviction or attachment. This phrase is particularly effective when contrasting it with a stronger or more definitive state.

Common error

While "less firmly" is generally acceptable, be mindful of overuse in highly formal or academic writing. Consider stronger, more precise alternatives if the context demands a more authoritative tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less firmly" functions as an adverbial modifier. It typically modifies verbs, adverbs, or adjectives to indicate a reduced degree of firmness, conviction, or attachment. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is perfectly usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the adverbial phrase "less firmly" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate a reduced degree of firmness, conviction, or attachment. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It appears most often in News & Media and Science contexts, maintaining a neutral register suitable for professional communication. When writing, remember that while generally acceptable, you may wish to consider stronger, more precise alternatives depending on the level of formality required. Be sure to consider semantically similar alternatives such as "with reduced conviction" or "more loosely" depending on the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with reduced conviction

Emphasizes a decreased level of belief or certainty.

with diminished resolve

Highlights a weakened determination or commitment.

not as strongly

Focuses on the intensity or strength of an action or belief.

more loosely

Indicates a less tight or secure connection or hold.

with less intensity

Highlights a reduction in the force or energy applied.

not so rigidly

Suggests a decrease in strictness or inflexibility.

more tentatively

Implies a hesitant or uncertain approach.

with less assurance

Focuses on a reduced level of confidence or certainty.

not as steadfastly

Highlights a decrease in unwavering commitment or loyalty.

more gently

Suggests a softer or more delicate approach.

FAQs

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

You can use "less firmly" to describe the strength of a belief, grip, or attachment. For example, "She held the reins "less firmly" as the horse slowed down."

What are some alternatives to "less firmly"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "with reduced conviction", "more loosely", or "more gently".

Is it grammatically correct to say "less firmly"?

Yes, "less firmly" is grammatically correct. It's an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, indicating a weaker degree of firmness.

In what contexts is "less firmly" commonly used?

"Less firmly" is frequently found in news articles, scientific papers, and encyclopedic entries to describe situations where something is not as strongly established, held, or believed. For example, describing a scientific theory that is "less firmly" established.