less flexible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less flexible" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has a lower degree of adaptability or is not as easily changed or adjusted compared to something else. Example: "The new policy is less flexible than the previous one, making it harder for employees to adjust their schedules."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

So while our natural tendency is to get less flexible, the world is demanding more flexibility.

Forbes

other candidates less flexible?

The Guardian - Business

Kenny is less flexible.

The New Yorker

But others are less flexible.

The Guardian

In turn, they become less flexible.

The New York Times - Magazine

Your joints become less flexible over time.

Harvard University

As tomatoes begin turning red, their skin becomes less flexible.

The New York Times

And age makes tendons less flexible and more vulnerable.

The New York Times - Health

"An older person has less flexible muscles and tendons.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The risk we took as the anchor tenant was a less-flexible pricing model.

HuffPost

The less flexible shifted their legs.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts like policies or strategies, use "less flexible" to suggest a limited ability to adapt to changing circumstances. For example, "The new approach is "less flexible" and may not be suitable for all situations."

Common error

Avoid using "less flexible" when describing physical objects that should be described as "stiff" or "rigid". "Less flexible" is better suited for abstract concepts or processes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less flexible" functions primarily as a modifier, specifically an adjectival phrase. As Ludwig AI also suggests, it's used to describe something that possesses a reduced degree of adaptability or is not as easily changed or adjusted when compared to something else. It quantifies the extent of flexibility, indicating a comparative state.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

22%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less flexible" is a grammatically sound and commonly used adjectival phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it is used to describe something with a reduced capacity for adaptation or change. It appears most frequently in "News & Media", academic, and scientific contexts, indicating a neutral formality level. While highly versatile, avoid overusing it in physical contexts where "stiff" or "rigid" might be more appropriate. Consider alternatives like "more rigid" or "less adaptable" depending on the specific shade of meaning you want to convey. With its consistent usage and clear meaning, "less flexible" is a reliable choice for expressing limited adaptability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less adaptable

Focuses on a reduced ability to adjust to new conditions.

more rigid

Indicates a higher degree of stiffness or unyielding nature.

less pliable

Emphasizes a reduced capacity to be easily bent or molded.

less yielding

Emphasizes a reduced tendency to give way under pressure.

less resilient

Highlights a decreased ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

more unyielding

Indicates an increased firmness and inability to compromise.

less versatile

Indicates a reduced capacity to be used for many different purposes.

less amenable

Focuses on a reduced openness or receptiveness to suggestion.

less accommodating

Highlights a reduced willingness to fit in with someone's needs or wishes.

less compliant

Indicates a reduced tendency to obey or agree with something.

FAQs

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

You can use "less flexible" to describe something that is not easily changed or adapted. For example: "The company's new policies are "less flexible" than before."

What are some alternatives to saying "less flexible"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "more rigid", "less adaptable", or "less pliable" instead of "less flexible".

Which is more appropriate: "less flexible" or "more rigid"?

"Less flexible" and "more rigid" can be similar, but "less flexible" generally implies a reduced capacity for adaptation, while "more rigid" emphasizes stiffness or unyielding nature.

What is the difference between "less flexible" and "less adaptable"?

"Less flexible" refers to a reduced range of movement or change, while "less adaptable" focuses specifically on the ability to adjust to new conditions. They are similar but "less adaptable" emphasizes the capacity to adapt to circumstances.