less free

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less free" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, condition, or state where freedom is reduced or limited compared to another context. Example: "In some countries, citizens may feel less free due to strict government regulations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

All of us are less free.

The Guardian - Opinion

Under observation, we act less free, which means we effectively *are* less free.

The New Yorker

Does that make their press any less free?

The Guardian - Opinion

"The government has just made America less free".

The New York Times

"This sort of thing makes us less free, not safer".

The New York Times

Are we less secure or less free as a consequence?

The New York Times

"Children have far less free time these days," Ilincic notes.

Independent

"If you have a huge workshop, you feel less free".

The New York Times

One kind of regulation makes me less free.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Anything less free-associative to share, fellow vagina-haver?

Vice

With the Broncos, said Moore, Hunley was forced to do less free-lance work.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing abstract concepts like liberty or rights, using "less free" can effectively convey a nuanced reduction in freedom without implying complete absence.

Common error

Avoid using "less free" when you actually mean "not free at all". "Less free" implies a partial restriction, while "not free" signifies a complete lack of liberty.

Linguistic Context

Less free primarily functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun by indicating a reduced degree of freedom. It is used to express that something or someone experiences limitations or constraints compared to a previous state or another entity, as supported by examples on Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less free" is a grammatically sound and frequently used comparative adjective phrase used to indicate a reduction or limitation of freedom. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread applicability. Its usage spans across various contexts, most notably in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Wiki sources. While it's essential to distinguish its meaning from "not free", which denotes a complete absence of liberty, understanding the nuances of "less free" allows for more precise and impactful communication. To broaden your vocabulary, consider alternatives such as "more restricted" or "less independent".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more restricted

Indicates limitations or constraints are increased, reducing overall freedom.

less liberated

Suggests a decrease in the state of being freed from societal or external constraints.

more constrained

Emphasizes external forces limiting action or expression.

less autonomous

Highlights a reduction in self-governance or independence.

more dependent

Indicates an increased reliance on external factors, limiting freedom of choice.

less independent

Focuses on a decrease in the ability to act without external influence or control.

more controlled

Suggests external management or regulation that diminishes freedom.

less at liberty

A more formal way of saying "less free", often used in legal or official contexts.

more subjugated

Implies being brought under control or domination, severely limiting freedom.

more oppressed

Indicates being subjected to unjust treatment or control, resulting in a lack of freedom.

FAQs

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

You can use "less free" to describe situations where freedom is limited or reduced. For example, "Citizens in countries with strict internet censorship may feel "less free" to express their opinions online."

What is a good alternative to "less free"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "more restricted", "more constrained", or "less independent" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to say "less free"?

Yes, "less free" is grammatically correct. It's a valid way to express a reduction in freedom, as evidenced by its usage in reputable publications.

What's the difference between "less free" and "not free"?

"Less free" indicates a partial restriction or limitation of freedom, while "not free" implies a complete absence of freedom. For example, being required to obtain a permit for a protest makes you "less free", while being completely banned from protesting means you are "not free".