less liable to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less liable to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a reduced likelihood of something happening or a decreased susceptibility to a particular condition or outcome. Example: "Children who are well-rested are less liable to become irritable during the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 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

At this condition, vitamin D was synthesized adequately, and body folic acid was less liable to be photolyzed.

Nature

The Karens prefer to erect their houses on high ground, where they are less liable to fires than near the river.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "less liable to", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the subject is less likely to experience. For instance, "Using maple, a harder wood, makes baseball bats "less liable to" splinter".

Common error

Avoid using "less liable to" in contexts where legal liability is specifically being discussed. In such cases, consider more precise legal terms such as "less responsible" or "not liable" to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less liable to" functions as an adjective phrase followed by a preposition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating a reduced tendency or probability of a particular outcome. Examples from Ludwig show its use across various contexts to express a decreased likelihood.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less liable to" is a versatile phrase used to express a reduced probability or susceptibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently appears in diverse contexts, including science, news, and academia. While "less liable to" is suitable for many situations, alternatives like "less prone to" or "less likely to" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When writing, consider the specific context and choose the phrase that most accurately reflects the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less prone to

Emphasizes a natural inclination or tendency, making it a subtle shift from liability.

less likely to

Focuses on probability, offering a more direct statement of reduced chance.

less susceptible to

Highlights a reduced vulnerability or sensitivity to a specific influence.

less subject to

Indicates a lower degree of exposure or control by an external factor.

less apt to

Implies a decreased natural tendency or suitability.

not as vulnerable to

Shifts the focus to a lack of weakness or exposure.

not as inclined to

Emphasizes a reduced willingness or desire.

less at risk of

Specifically addresses a decreased chance of encountering danger or harm.

with a lower chance of

Quantifies the probability, making it more explicit.

less exposed to

Highlights a reduced level of contact or influence.

FAQs

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

Use "less liable to" to indicate a reduced probability or tendency. For example, "A diet rich in fiber is "less liable to" cause constipation".

What are some alternatives to "less liable to"?

You can use alternatives like "less prone to", "less likely to", or "less susceptible to" depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to say "less likely to" or "less liable to"?

Both "less likely to" and "less liable to" are correct, but "less likely to" generally refers to probability, while "less liable to" can also imply a reduced susceptibility or responsibility. Choose the phrase that best fits the intended meaning.

What is the difference between "less liable to" and "less responsible for"?

"Less liable to" suggests a reduced chance of something happening, whereas "less responsible for" indicates a diminished obligation or accountability. The choice depends on whether you're discussing probability or duty.