less liable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less liable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the reduced likelihood of being responsible or accountable for something. Example: "By implementing stricter safety measures, the company is less liable for accidents in the workplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Electronics have become less liable to explode.

The Economist

They were good-natured, highly driven animals, and less liable to bite than pointy-eared dogs.

The New Yorker

That would have made the Atlantic's upper layers less dense, so less liable to sink.

The Economist

It's hard to think of a species less liable to be trapped by geography.

The New Yorker

Mr Bonds switched to maple, a heavier but harder wood that is less liable to splinter.

The Economist

This seems to boost their lifespan by up to 50%, and make them less liable to neurological disorders.

The Economist

First, pastors without seminary training are less removed from secular life, and less liable to speak "churchese".

The New Yorker

They're reliable: sweet enough on their own, not too watery and less liable to turn brown than other apples.

The New York Times - Food

"It's about regathering the region, and a feeling that the West is much weaker, less liable to do anything here.

The New York Times

Those who had lain quietly for days or even hours after the bombing were much less liable to get sick than those who had been active.

The New Yorker

With each election they seem to become ever more stage-managed, ever less liable to produce that unguarded moment that helps define a candidacy.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "less liable", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is less liable for. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "less liable" without specifying the area of potential responsibility. For instance, instead of saying "The new system is less liable", specify "The new system is less liable to errors than the old one."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less liable" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a reduced probability or degree of responsibility. Ludwig examples show it commonly modifies nouns referring to entities or systems, suggesting a lower risk or chance of negative outcomes. Ludwig AI confirms it as correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

41%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less liable" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjective phrase that indicates a reduced probability or responsibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted in written English. It is versatile and appears across various contexts, predominantly in News & Media and Science. When using "less liable", be clear about what the subject is less liable for. Alternatives include "less responsible", "less accountable", and "less likely to". Remember to choose the alternative that best fits the specific nuance you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less responsible

This alternative emphasizes a reduced sense of duty or accountability.

less accountable

This suggests a decrease in the obligation to answer for one's actions.

less likely to

This phrase expresses a lower probability of something occurring.

less subject to

Implies a reduced vulnerability or susceptibility to something.

less prone to

Suggests a decreased tendency to experience something negative.

less susceptible to

Focuses on a decreased sensitivity or vulnerability.

less at risk of

Emphasizes a diminished level of danger or potential harm.

less inclined to

Indicates a reduced willingness or preference to do something.

less exposed to

Implies a reduced level of contact or vulnerability to external factors.

less open to

Suggests a decreased receptiveness or vulnerability to influence.

FAQs

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

You can use "less liable" to indicate a reduced probability or responsibility. For example: "Implementing safety measures makes the company "less liable" for workplace accidents."

What are some alternatives to saying "less liable"?

Alternatives include "less responsible", "less accountable", or "less likely to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "less liable" or "least liable"?

"Less liable" is used for comparing two entities, while "least liable" is used when comparing three or more. Example: "This material is less liable to wear than that one", vs. "Of all the materials, this one is the least liable to wear."

What's the difference between "less liable" and "less responsible"?

"Less liable" often refers to legal or formal responsibility, while "less responsible" can encompass moral or general accountability. However, they are often used interchangeably.