less obviously

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less obviously" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to signify that something is not as clear or obvious as it could be. For example: Some of the characters in the novel are less obviously heroic than others.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Others are less obviously useful.

The Economist

– seems less obviously clear-cut.

The Guardian - Sport

Carrying less, obviously, makes walking easier.

The New York Times

Many of the donations were less obviously useful.

The New Yorker

Less obviously, each in effect turns into the other.

The Economist

Instead, start hunting for less obviously visible vacancies.

The Guardian

The chairman of selectors, Angus Fraser, was less obviously overjoyed.

The Guardian - Sport

Other characters are less obviously connected by marriage or descent.

The New York Times - Books

Not much less obviously, "rendition" can also refer to a musical performance.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Others bought a Saab because they believed it made them less ­obviously dull.

The Guardian - Business

But I remember them back then" – and, less obviously, to her dad.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "less obviously" to introduce a point that is true but requires more thought or analysis to recognize. It helps guide your reader to consider less immediate implications.

Common error

Don't use "less obviously" when you mean 'not at all'. The phrase implies a degree of visibility, albeit a low one. If something is completely hidden, a stronger phrase is needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less obviously" functions as an adverbial modifier. According to Ludwig AI, it indicates that something is not as clear or apparent as it might be. It serves to qualify or soften a statement, suggesting a degree of subtlety or indirectness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less obviously" is a grammatically sound adverbial phrase used to introduce non-obvious points or observations. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and utility in written English. It's commonly found in news, media, and scientific contexts, where nuanced expression is important. When using it, consider whether you intend to convey a subtle implication or a complete lack of visibility, as misinterpreting its degree can mislead your audience. Ludwig contains a wide range of examples that showcase the practical usage of "less obviously" in context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less evidently

Replaces "obviously" with "evidently", suggesting a slightly more formal tone but similar meaning.

less apparently

Substitutes "obviously" with "apparently", emphasizing that something is not clear at first glance.

not so clearly

Uses a simpler structure, directly negating the clarity of something.

not as obviously

Emphasizes a comparison, suggesting something is not as straightforward as something else.

in a less obvious way

Changes the phrase to an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, focusing on the manner of action.

more subtly

Indicates that something is done in a delicate or understated manner, implying it's not immediately noticeable.

less conspicuously

Suggests something is done without attracting attention, making it less noticeable.

not straightforwardly

Indicates that something is not direct or simple to understand.

less directly

Implies an indirect connection or influence, rather than a clear and immediate one.

to a lesser extent

Indicates something happens but not as much as another case.

FAQs

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

Use "less obviously" to introduce a point, comparison, or factor that isn't immediately apparent or easily understood. For example, "Less obviously, the new policy affected small businesses".

What are some alternatives to "less obviously"?

You can use alternatives like "less evidently", "not so clearly", or "more subtly" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "not obviously" instead of "less obviously"?

While "not obviously" isn't grammatically incorrect, "less obviously" implies a degree of visibility, whereas "not obviously" suggests it's not apparent at all. Choose the phrase that best fits the context.

What's the difference between "less obviously" and "more subtly"?

"Less obviously" indicates something is not immediately apparent, while ""more subtly"" suggests something is done in a delicate or understated manner. They both imply a lack of directness, but "more subtly" focuses on the method or style.