less obvious

USAGE SUMMARY

'less obvious' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are comparing two things or people that are not equally obvious. For example: "The differences between the two candidates were less obvious this year than in previous elections."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Boots looked less obvious.

The Economist

Make them less obvious".

The New Yorker

That seems less obvious now.

The New York Times

Others are less obvious.

The New Yorker

But there are less obvious changes too.

Independent

Think of the less obvious things.

The New York Times

But allegiances are less obvious this year.

The Economist

Others point out less obvious advantages.

The Economist

And there are other, less obvious issues.

The Economist

Hong Kong art is less obvious".

The New York Times - Arts

There are less obvious reasons, too.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing options, use "less obvious" to highlight advantages or disadvantages that might be overlooked initially. This adds depth to your analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "less obvious" when the difference is already apparent. Instead, reserve it for scenarios where the distinction requires deeper thought or analysis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less obvious" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It typically modifies a noun, indicating that something possesses a quality to a lesser degree than something else. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less obvious" is a grammatically correct and frequently used comparative adjective phrase. It serves to emphasize subtleties or non-immediate aspects within various contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is perfectly acceptable and usable in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, "less obvious" encourages deeper analysis and insight. Remember to reserve it for instances where the distinction genuinely requires further consideration, enhancing the depth and nuance of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not as evident

Emphasizes a reduced level of visibility or clarity.

less apparent

Highlights a lower degree of being easily perceived or understood.

more subtle

Focuses on the understated or delicate nature of something.

not so straightforward

Suggests a level of complexity or indirectness.

not immediately clear

Indicates that understanding requires more thought or investigation.

less conspicuous

Highlights a reduced level of being noticeable or attracting attention.

more implicit

Focuses on the implied or suggested nature of something.

not as prominent

Emphasizes a lower degree of importance or fame.

somewhat hidden

Suggests that something is partially concealed or not easily found.

slightly obscure

Indicates a lack of clarity or distinctness.

FAQs

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

You can use "less obvious" to describe something that is not immediately apparent or easily noticeable. For instance, "The "less obvious" benefits of exercise include improved mental health and increased energy levels."

What are some alternatives to saying "less obvious"?

Alternatives to "less obvious" include phrases like "not as evident", "more subtle", or "not immediately clear", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "less obvious"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Less" is used to compare quantities or degrees, and "obvious" is an adjective. Therefore, "less obvious" correctly indicates a lower degree of being obvious.

What is the difference between "less obvious" and "unobvious"?

"Unobvious" is not a commonly used word. "Less obvious" is the preferred and more natural way to express that something is not immediately apparent.