less off-putting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less off-putting" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is more appealing or less likely to cause discomfort or aversion. Example: "The new design is less off-putting than the previous version, making it more attractive to potential customers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Though she is considered as tough as her husband, she can be less off-putting.

The New York Times

Mr Reid is a little less off-putting, but clumsier too, more prone to a gaffe than Ms Pelosi.

The Economist

This quality is less off-putting in Ivana, whose career didn't start with a million-dollar loan from her father.

The New Yorker

Could he become Prime Minister by default, much like the incumbent, simply by being slightly less off-putting a presence than his rival?

Independent

But I found it less off-putting than fascinating, his intelligence and sense of humor blazing through, and he quickly put me at ease.

The New York Times

While Mitt Romney did a great job of conjuring a less off-putting and hard-right Romney, Obama walked into a trap of his own devising.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

"Though not as turbo-charged as the original, it's funnier and less politically off-putting.

The Guardian - Film

Denmark bans spouses aged less than 24 very off-putting for traditionalist Muslims.

The Economist

The remarkable success being enjoyed by Claudio Ranieri's team means the almost equally impressive progress being made by Palace, and indeed Stoke, is under less of a potentially off-putting spotlight.

The Guardian - Sport

It was an off-putting performance, to put it mildly.

The New York Times

Khan gives us a pretty ruthless, off-putting picture of the less-than-glamorous industry and Jay does a lot of growing up.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for a wider audience, use "less off-putting" to describe changes that improve user experience or public perception. For example, a design modification can be described as "less off-putting" to suggest it's more user-friendly.

Common error

While "less off-putting" is versatile, avoid overusing it in formal or academic writing where more precise vocabulary might be appropriate. Consider alternatives such as "more agreeable" or "more palatable" depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less off-putting" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies a noun by indicating that something is not as likely to cause a negative reaction or aversion as something else. As Ludwig confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less off-putting" is a versatile adjective phrase used to describe something that has become more agreeable or acceptable by reducing negative aspects. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and commonly used, especially in news and media. While suitable for general communication, remember to consider context and register, opting for more precise language in formal or academic writing. When aiming for broader appeal, "less off-putting" is a practical way to communicate enhancements in user experience and public perception. Use alternatives such as "more appealing" or "more agreeable" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less objectionable

Directly addresses the reduction of something found to be offensive or disagreeable.

less repulsive

Indicates a decrease in causing strong aversion or disgust.

more appealing

Focuses on the positive attraction rather than the reduction of negativity.

less irritating

Focuses on reducing annoyance or frustration.

more agreeable

Suggests a greater level of pleasantness and acceptance.

more acceptable

Emphasizes a higher degree of being generally approved or tolerated.

more attractive

Highlights the visual or aesthetic improvement.

more inviting

Highlights an increase in the sense of welcome and approachability.

more palatable

Implies something is easier to accept or tolerate.

more pleasant

Emphasizes the overall positive experience.

FAQs

How can I use "less off-putting" in a sentence?

You can use "less off-putting" to describe something that has been improved to be more appealing or acceptable. For example: "The new user interface is "less off-putting" than the previous version, making it easier for new users to learn."

What are some alternatives to "less off-putting"?

Alternatives to "less off-putting" include "more appealing", "more agreeable", or "more attractive". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "less off-putting" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, in very formal or academic writing, you might consider alternatives that convey a higher degree of precision, such as "more palatable" or "less objectionable".

What's the difference between "less off-putting" and "more appealing"?

"Less off-putting" focuses on reducing negative aspects or aversions, while "more appealing" emphasizes positive attraction. Using "less off-putting" suggests that the primary goal was to remove barriers or dislikes, while "more appealing" indicates an active effort to enhance attractiveness.