less objectionable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less objectionable" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe something or someone that may still have some negative qualities or characteristics, but is not as bad or offensive as others. Example: The new policy was still met with some resistance, but it was ultimately seen as less objectionable than the previous one.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Distance makes it seem somehow less objectionable.

The New Yorker

The dance elements were suggestive in less objectionable ways.

The New York Times - Arts

Do you think it's more acceptable (or less objectionable) to voice antigay sentiment than racial slurs?

The New York Times

Your article suggested that getting paid $1,100 made this somehow less objectionable.

The New York Times

To that end, it is less objectionable than destroying an embryo created by normal fertilization.

The New York Times

While all balanced-budget rules are suspect to begin with, some are less objectionable than others.

The New Yorker

If anything, genetic testing for future capacities is less objectionable because it's more reliable.

The New York Times - Magazine

As part of an exercise game, the pounding dance tunes seemed less objectionable.

The New York Times - Tech

Gas pipelines are somewhat less objectionable, though, because they are buried.

The New York Times - Science

Moments like this abound, which would be less objectionable if the game's scripting weren't bugged in many places.

The New York Times - Arts

But a Burger King bacon double cheeseburger is still 12 points, making it slightly less objectionable under the new regime.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "less objectionable" to express a comparative reduction in negativity, suggesting that while something may still not be ideal, it is an improvement over a previous or alternative option. For example, 'Switching to a shorter meeting schedule was less objectionable to the staff than eliminating breaks altogether.'

Common error

Avoid using "less objectionable" when a completely positive or preferred alternative exists. It's best suited for situations where compromise is necessary. Using it when a fully desirable option is available can imply lingering reservations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less objectionable" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun by indicating a reduced degree of objectionableness. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less objectionable" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjective phrase that expresses a comparative reduction in negativity. Ludwig confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples of its use across various domains. Its primary function is to indicate a preference for one option over another because it evokes fewer objections. While suitable for neutral and professional contexts, it's essential to use it when a compromise is needed, as indicated by Ludwig's analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more unobjectionable

Highlights that something causes fewer objections.

less offensive

Emphasizes a reduction in the degree of causing displeasure or resentment.

less problematic

Indicates a decrease in the degree of causing difficulties or issues.

more acceptable

Indicates a shift towards greater approval or permissibility.

less undesirable

Highlights a decrease in the level of being unwanted or unwelcome.

more tolerable

Focuses on the increased ability to endure or put up with something.

more agreeable

Implies an increase in the level of being pleasing or willing to agree.

more palatable

Suggests something is easier to accept or agree with.

more satisfactory

Focuses on increased fulfillment of expectations or needs.

more benign

Suggests a shift towards a gentler or less harmful nature.

FAQs

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

You can use "less objectionable" to compare options, indicating that one is preferable because it provokes fewer objections. For instance, "The compromise solution was "less objectionable" to both parties involved".

What's a good alternative to "less objectionable"?

Depending on the context, consider using alternatives like "more acceptable", "more palatable", or "more agreeable" if you want to emphasize a positive shift.

Is "less objectionable" grammatically correct?

Yes, "less objectionable" is grammatically correct. It uses "less" to form the comparative degree of the adjective "objectionable".

How does "less objectionable" differ from "unobjectionable"?

"Less objectionable" implies that something still has some objectionable qualities, but fewer than another option. "Unobjectionable" suggests that something is entirely free from qualities that would cause objection.