less generous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less generous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare the level of generosity between two or more subjects, indicating that one is not as generous as the other. Example: "While she usually donates to charity, this year she has been less generous than in the past."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some are much less generous.

Independent

Others are less generous.

The Guardian

The other cards are less generous.

The New York Times

In fact some are much less generous.

Independent

Gspurning was a little less generous.

The New York Times

But others had a less generous interpretation.

The New York Times

Other industry groups were less generous.

The New York Times - Science

The House plan is far less generous.

The Economist

Organic foods may make you less generous.

The New York Times

Fleetwood are considerably less generous.

The Guardian - Sport

Reality is much less generous.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing the generosity of different entities, ensure clarity by specifying what aspect of generosity you are measuring. For instance, "The company was "less generous" with bonuses this year compared to last year" provides a clearer context.

Common error

Avoid using "less generous" when you actually mean "ungenerous" or "stingy". "Less generous" implies a comparison to a previous state or another entity, while "ungenerous" indicates a general lack of generosity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less generous" primarily functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It's used to describe something—a person, a policy, an offer—as exhibiting a lower degree of generosity than something else. As Ludwig AI suggests, the expression is grammatically correct and appears in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science

15%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less generous" is a grammatically sound and common phrase used to describe a comparative reduction in generosity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. Predominantly found in news and media, it serves to highlight a change or difference in the level of giving or sharing. When using this phrase, ensure you provide context to clarify the basis of comparison. Alternatives include "not as giving" or "more frugal", each carrying slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not as giving

A straightforward way of saying someone isn't as generous as before or as someone else.

less charitable

Directly refers to a decrease in charitable giving or support.

more uncharitable

Highlights a lack of compassion or willingness to help others.

more frugal

Focuses on being economical and avoiding waste, suggesting a careful use of resources.

more economical

Highlights cost-effectiveness and efficient use of resources, implying a reduction in spending.

more thrifty

Stresses the importance of saving money and avoiding unnecessary expenses.

reduced benefits

Specifically indicates a decrease in the advantages or assistance provided.

more tight-fisted

Emphasizes unwillingness to spend money, suggesting stinginess.

more miserly

Implies extreme stinginess and hoarding of wealth.

smaller allowance

Refers to a reduction in the amount of something given or permitted.

FAQs

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

You can use "less generous" to compare the degree of generosity between two entities or time periods. For example, "This year's tax return was "less generous" than last year's".

What are some alternatives to saying "less generous"?

Alternatives include "more frugal", "less charitable", or "not as giving", depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "less generous" and "ungenerous"?

"Less generous" implies a comparison, indicating a decrease in generosity relative to something else. "Ungenerous", on the other hand, simply means lacking generosity without any specific comparison.

Is it always negative to be "less generous"?

Not necessarily. While often used in a negative context, "less generous" can also describe a situation where resources are limited, requiring more careful allocation, or where priorities have shifted.