less harsh

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less harsh" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing something that is milder or more gentle in comparison to something else. Example: "The new policy is less harsh than the previous one, allowing for more flexibility."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That makes it a lot less harsh".

The New York Times - Food

Other gun control advocates were less harsh.

The New York Times

"A little less harsh, I would say".

The New York Times - Magazine

A gentle, less harsh alternative is flaxseed.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Looking back in 1948, Norman's judgment was no less harsh.

The Economist

His wife's assessment is only slightly less harsh.

The New York Times

Pools today generally smell a lot less harsh.

The New York Times

Cancer treatments today tend to be less harsh.

The New York Times - Health

The Americans' racial hatred was no less harsh.

The New York Times - Books

The shocking line had been changed to something less harsh.

The Guardian

The fathers of the church were only slightly less harsh.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing different policies or treatments, use "less harsh" to indicate a more humane or tolerable approach. For example, "The new disciplinary policy is "less harsh" on first-time offenders".

Common error

While "less harsh" is generally acceptable, in highly formal or academic writing, consider more precise synonyms like "more lenient", "more moderate", or "less severe" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less harsh" functions primarily as a comparative adjective phrase. It's used to modify a noun by indicating a lower degree of severity or intensity compared to something else. Ludwig examples show its usage in various contexts, like treatments or policies being "less harsh".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

19%

Wiki

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "less harsh" is a commonly used comparative adjective phrase that indicates a reduction in severity or intensity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for various contexts, especially in news, science and wiki articles. While generally neutral in register, more formal settings may benefit from synonyms like "more lenient" or "more moderate". By being mindful of context and audience, writers can effectively use "less harsh" to convey a more tolerable or improved situation. The examples found on Ludwig, from authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, demonstrate its widespread and versatile application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less severe

Directly indicates a decrease in seriousness or intensity.

less extreme

Indicates a move away from the most intense or radical end of a spectrum.

less intense

Focuses on reducing the strength or degree of something.

more lenient

Focuses on reduced strictness in rules or judgments.

less strict

Indicates a relaxation of rules or regulations.

more gentle

Emphasizes a softer, kinder approach or effect.

softer

Implies reduced intensity, particularly in sensory experiences or treatment.

more mild

Highlights a reduced intensity or severity, often in terms of weather or flavor.

more moderate

Suggests a balanced and controlled approach, reducing intensity.

more forgiving

Highlights a greater willingness to pardon or excuse, reducing the harshness of judgment.

FAQs

What does "less harsh" mean?

The phrase "less harsh" means something is not as severe, strict, or unpleasant as something else. It implies a reduction in intensity or severity.

What can I say instead of "less harsh"?

You can use alternatives like "more lenient", "more gentle", or "less severe" depending on the context.

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

Here's an example: "The updated guidelines are "less harsh" and allow for more flexibility than the previous ones."

Is "less harsh" formal or informal language?

"Less harsh" is generally considered neutral and can be used in many contexts. However, in highly formal settings, consider using a more precise synonym such as "more moderate" or "more lenient".