less intense than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less intense than" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare the intensity of two things, indicating that one is not as strong or powerful as the other. Example: "The storm last night was less intense than the one we experienced last week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The glutelin band intensities of chickpea flour were less intense than its tarhana dough, which was previously demonstrated by WF and WWF (Figure 4).

Chemistry Central Journal

In truth, the fighting is far less intense than that.

The New York Times

Though less intense than the nonstop assault on Monday, fighting continued throughout today.

The New York Times

The shelling of Slupcane, another suspected rebel stronghold, was less intense than in previous days.

The New York Times

"When the rating says 'action violence,' is that less intense than just 'violence?' " Ms. Thompson asked.

The New York Times

The protests on Sunday were smaller and less intense than those on Saturday.

The New York Times

Daniel's manner is less intense than his brother's, his features softer, his movements slower.

The New York Times - Magazine

But Moss says she's much less intense than her roles suggest.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

She made it sound no less intense than all those earlier effusions.

The New York Times - Arts

The storm around LIBOR is less intense than it was but its consequences are immense.

The Economist

The result was much more joyous and less intense than in Mr. Slimane's earlier shows.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing the intensity of two events or phenomena, ensure that the context is clear. For instance, specify what aspects are "less intense" in the comparison, such as duration, frequency, or impact.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "less intense than" automatically implies 'weak'. Something can be "less intense" in one aspect (e.g., duration) but still significant in another (e.g., impact). Be specific to avoid misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less intense than" serves as a comparative adjective phrase. Its primary function is to qualify a noun by indicating that it possesses a lower degree of intensity compared to another noun. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable comparative phrase across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "less intense than" is a versatile comparative phrase used to describe a lower degree of strength or force relative to something else. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage, particularly in news, media, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying which aspects are being compared and avoid assuming it implies overall weakness. Alternatives such as "not as intense as" or "weaker than" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Remember, precise and relevant usage will enhance communication and avoid misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not as intense as

Uses a different comparative structure with "as...as" to convey a similar meaning of lower intensity.

weaker than

Replaces "intense" with "weaker", focusing on the strength or power aspect of intensity.

not so strong as

Employs "strong" instead of "intense", highlighting the force or potency involved.

milder than

Substitutes "intense" with "milder", suggesting a gentler or more moderate quality.

not nearly as severe as

Replaces "intense" with "severe", emphasizing the degree of seriousness or harshness.

less severe compared to

Adds "compared to" for an explicit comparison while using "severe" instead of "intense".

of a lower magnitude than

Uses a more formal tone, replacing "intense" with "magnitude" to describe the extent or size of something.

to a lesser extent than

Focuses on the degree or scope of something, rather than its raw intensity.

not quite as extreme as

Replaces "intense" with "extreme", emphasizing the extremity or radical nature of something.

pales in comparison to

Uses an idiomatic expression to suggest that something is much weaker or less significant than something else.

FAQs

How can I use "less intense than" in a sentence?

Use "less intense than" to compare the degree or strength of something relative to another. Example: "The aftershocks were "less intense than" the initial earthquake".

What phrases can I use instead of "less intense than"?

Alternatives include "not as intense as", "weaker than", or "milder than", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "less intense than"?

Yes, "less intense than" is grammatically correct. It follows standard comparative structure, indicating that one thing possesses a lower degree of intensity compared to another.

What is the difference between "less intense than" and "less severe than"?

"Less intense than" generally refers to the degree of force or strength, while "less severe than" often indicates a lower degree of seriousness or harm. The best choice depends on what aspect you are comparing.