less onerous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less onerous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is easier or less burdensome than another option or situation. Example: "The new policy is less onerous than the previous one, making it easier for employees to comply."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Others have slightly less onerous exit terms.

The New York Times

This week, the task is less onerous.

The New York Times

Make restricted free agency less onerous.

The New York Times - Sports

The rules were less onerous than expected.

The New York Times

This, they both say, makes Occupy Gramercy Park less onerous.

The New York Times

But solar's improving economics are making this imposition less onerous.

The Economist

"Virtual colonoscopy" sounds less onerous to some people.

The New York Times - Health

Sigmoidoscopy involves a less onerous cleansing and no sedation.

The New York Times

Most flights with less onerous conditions cost more than $300.

The New York Times

My school fell into that less onerous category.

The New York Times

The restrictions are less onerous on foreign-based businesses.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, replace abstract nouns with concrete ones to make the task or responsibility being described more tangible and understandable in the context of "less onerous".

Common error

While "less onerous" is generally acceptable, overuse in formal writing can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "more manageable" or "less burdensome" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less onerous" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun by indicating that something is not as burdensome, troublesome, or difficult as something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, this construction is commonly used and grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less onerous" is a grammatically sound and frequently used comparative adjective phrase that means "not as burdensome or troublesome". As Ludwig AI validates, it is most commonly found in News & Media and Science, reflecting its versatility in describing regulations, tasks, or responsibilities. While "less onerous" is widely acceptable, writers should avoid overuse, especially in formal contexts, and be mindful of using synonyms like "more manageable" or "less burdensome" for variation. Proper usage involves concrete nouns to clarify the burden being reduced.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less burdensome

Focuses on reducing the burden or weight associated with something.

less demanding

Emphasizes a reduction in the requirements or effort needed.

less difficult

Highlights a decrease in the level of challenge or complexity.

more manageable

Suggests something is easier to control or handle.

easier to bear

Focuses on the reduced emotional or physical strain.

less oppressive

Indicates a reduction in the feeling of being weighed down or controlled.

more relaxed

Highlights a decrease in stress or tension associated with something.

less taxing

Emphasizes a reduction in the amount of energy or resources required.

more straightforward

Suggests the process is simpler and easier to understand.

less painful

Highlights a reduction in unpleasantness or suffering.

FAQs

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

You can use "less onerous" to describe a task, rule, or responsibility that is easier or less burdensome compared to something else. For example, "The new regulations are "less onerous" than the previous ones".

What are some alternatives to saying "less onerous"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "less burdensome", "more manageable", or "less demanding" to convey a similar meaning.

Which is correct, "less onerous" or "fewer onerous"?

"Less onerous" is correct because "onerous" describes something that is burdensome or troublesome in a general, non-countable sense. "Fewer" is used for countable items, while "less" is used for non-countable items.

What's the difference between "less onerous" and "less arduous"?

While both phrases imply a reduction in difficulty, "less arduous" specifically emphasizes a reduction in physical or mental effort and strenuousness, whereas "less onerous" focuses on reducing the burden or troublesome nature of something.