less nasty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less nasty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing two things, indicating that one is not as unpleasant or offensive as the other. Example: "While both options have their drawbacks, this one is definitely less nasty than the alternative."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

Cameroon's government is less nasty, and has less oil, but is more dependent on France.

The Economist

"It's less nasty than anything that would create black smoke in the olden days," he said.

The New York Times

All those I speak to, however, report seeing less nasty stuff, if any at all, on Musical.ly than elsewhere.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

No part of this three-way puzzle creating a press that is free, less nasty and sustainable can be solved in isolation.

The Economist

But my argument is not just – or even mainly – that alien species are rather less nasty than we like to pretend.

Independent

While these benefits have not been spread equally across countries, or even within countries, in general, life is now less nasty, less brutish and certainly less short.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

The site in time evolved into less a nasty catharsis than a forum for professors and students to explain themselves.

The New York Times

The concern is less about nasty bacteria and more about sediment from outdated pipes that might upset your stomach.

Huffington Post

The term "troll" has become shorthand for more or less every nasty scumbag on the internet, and there's no denying that's exactly what these people are.

Vice

All I write is this: "Tear down that wall, Dr. Stokes!" Then I see it on the paper and it strikes me I'm probably being less than nasty but more than impolite.

Huffington Post

The word troll has become shorthand for more or less every nasty scumbag on the internet, and there's no denying that's exactly what many of these people are.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "less nasty" when comparing two options to clearly indicate which one is the preferable choice due to its reduced negative qualities.

Common error

Avoid using "less nasty" in highly formal or professional writing. While acceptable in general usage, opt for more refined and precise alternatives like "more agreeable" or "less problematic" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less nasty" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun by indicating a reduced degree of unpleasantness. Ludwig AI analysis and examples confirm its use in contrasting scenarios to highlight a more favorable option.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less nasty" is a comparative adjective phrase used to indicate a reduced degree of unpleasantness. While grammatically correct and commonly used, its appropriateness varies by context, with higher suitability in neutral to informal settings. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, more formal situations benefit from alternatives like "more agreeable" or "less problematic". The frequency analysis reveals that the phrase is most prevalent in news and media sources. When writing, consider the audience and context to ensure the phrase aligns with the desired tone and level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not as unpleasant

Focuses on reducing the level of unpleasantness rather than nastiness.

somewhat milder

Indicates a more gentle or moderate degree of something negative.

slightly disagreeable

Emphasizes a minor level of offensiveness or unpleasantness.

not quite as awful

Highlights a reduction in the level of dreadfulness.

a bit more palatable

Suggests an improvement in acceptability or agreeableness.

relatively benign

Implies a harmless or gentle nature in comparison.

comparatively agreeable

Indicates a favorable comparison in terms of agreeableness.

moderately better

Highlights a moderate level of improvement.

somewhat improved

Focuses on the enhancement or betterment of something.

minimally offensive

Emphasizes the low degree of offensiveness.

FAQs

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

You can use "less nasty" to compare two undesirable situations, indicating one is preferable, such as: "While both options have drawbacks, this one is "less nasty" than the alternative."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "less nasty"?

Alternatives include "not as unpleasant", "somewhat milder", or "slightly disagreeable", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "less nasty"?

Yes, "less nasty" is grammatically correct. "Less" is used with uncountable nouns, and in this case, "nasty" is being used as a quality or attribute, making it grammatically acceptable.

In what situations is "less nasty" most appropriate?

"Less nasty" is suitable in informal contexts or when comparing degrees of unpleasantness. For formal settings, consider alternatives like "more desirable" or "less problematic".