less intricate

USAGE SUMMARY

"less intricate" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it as an adjective to describe something that is simpler or less complicated than something else. For example: "The new model is much less intricate than the older version, making it easier to assemble."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Less intricate fish preparations were more successful.

The New York Times

Hiring a competent tax professional makes sense, even for businesses with less intricate financial affairs — if one is available.

The New York Times

The influence of his expressive but technically less intricate style eclipsed that of both Campin and van Eyck.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The simpler the world picture, the less intricate the celestial mechanics, and the greater the play of universal forces, however bizarre their action.

The New Yorker

But "The Cove" is a less intricate, nuanced book than "Serena," perhaps because it is tethered to a real and freakish historical occurrence.

The New York Times - Books

Because Mr. Sondheim's lyrics are calculatedly less intricate than usual in "Pacific Overtures," seldom do you feel you're missing something by not hearing them sung in English.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Cumulative profiles of variance explained by consecutive components show that variation in H3K4 tri-methylation marks, known to be found in TSSs of active genes, was more extensively captured than variation in mono- and di-methylation, suggesting that the deposition of H3K4me3 on TSSs follows less intricated read enrichment patterns (Fig. 2c).

BioData Mining

An overview of the Diamond Project would suggest that 1992 had works of originality that were less than intricate.

The New York Times - Arts

Their relative obscurity seems to be one of those strange mismatches of talent and fame, and certainly less than their intricate, well-delivered compositions deserve.

Independent

Suddenly, the harmonies grow more intricate and less predictable, and the lyrics sharpen.

The New Yorker

The price of a three-course prix fixe has dropped to $78 from $92, and Mr. Lee's cooking is less self-conscious and intricate than Mr. Liebrandt's.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "less intricate" when you want to emphasize a reduction in detail or complexity, suggesting something is easier to understand or work with. For example, "a less intricate design".

Common error

Avoid using "less intricate" when you actually mean "less intense". Intricacy refers to complexity, while intensity refers to strength or degree. For example, say "less intense flavor" rather than "less intricate flavor" if you're describing taste.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less intricate" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a lower degree of complexity or detail. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

33%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "less intricate" serves as a comparative adjective, effectively conveying a reduction in complexity or detail. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and commonly used across various fields, including News & Media and Science. When aiming for clarity and simplicity, consider alternatives like "simpler" or "less complex". It's crucial to differentiate "less intricate" from "less intense" to ensure accurate communication. The frequent use of "less intricate" in reputable sources such as The New York Times and BBC underscores its reliability in both formal and informal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simpler

Directly implies a reduction in complexity.

less complex

Uses a more direct synonym for intricate.

less complicated

Focuses on the ease of understanding.

more straightforward

Highlights the directness and ease of navigation.

less elaborate

Emphasizes a reduction in ornamentation or detail.

more basic

Implies a return to fundamental elements.

more streamlined

Suggests efficiency and a lack of unnecessary elements.

less sophisticated

Indicates a reduction in refinement or advancement.

easier to manage

Focuses on practicality and ease of handling.

more accessible

Highlights ease of understanding or use.

FAQs

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

You can use "less intricate" to describe something that is simpler or less complex than something else. For example, "The new software has a "less intricate" interface, making it easier for beginners to use."

What are some alternatives to saying "less intricate"?

Some alternatives to "less intricate" include "simpler", "less complex", "less complicated", or "more straightforward", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "less intricate" in formal writing?

Yes, "less intricate" is perfectly acceptable in formal writing. It is a clear and professional way to describe something that has been simplified or made less complex.

What's the difference between "less intricate" and "less elaborate"?

While both phrases suggest a reduction in complexity, "less intricate" focuses more on the detailed and interwoven nature of something, while "less elaborate" emphasizes a reduction in ornamentation or embellishment. Choose the phrase that best fits the specific aspect you want to highlight.