less pointed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less pointed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not as direct, sharp, or focused in its expression or intent. Example: "The author's later works are less pointed in their criticism of society, opting for a more subtle approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

The result is less pointed than "Dragons".

The New Yorker

Local reporters' questions often are less pointed.

The New York Times

Some appeals are less pointed, yet intriguing.

The New York Times

There was less pointed advocacy in the artists' sets, and in some cases less was better.

The New York Times - Arts

You can say something similar, although a bit less pointed, about the Obama administration.

The New York Times

Other settings are less pointed but take on an unexpected relevance or lend an intriguing tension.

The New York Times

The criticism of Dearlove is less pointed than that of Scarlett.

The Guardian

Disney's response to Mr. Jobs on Wednesday was no less pointed.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

But the CREW complaint says the group's less-pointed "electioneering" ads — costing $4.6 million in all — crossed the line as well.

The New York Times

French filmmakers have often made movies about adolescence -- from François Truffaut's 1959 classic, "The 400 Blows," to the 1980 "La Boum" (which introduced Sophie Marceau) to the 2000 movie "Du Poil Sous les Roses" ("Hair Under the Roses"), which drew some less-pointed comparisons to the first "American Pie" for its "raw" treatment of teenage sexuality.

The New York Times

Entoloma luteum is a duller yellow color, with a less distinctly pointed umbo.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "less pointed", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being compared. For instance, specify what the alternative approach is or what aspect is less direct.

Common error

Avoid using "less pointed" when you intend to convey a lack of relevance or significance. "Less pointed" implies a deliberate reduction in directness, not a lack of importance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less pointed" functions primarily as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun by indicating a lower degree of directness, sharpness, or focus, as confirmed by Ludwig and numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less pointed" is a grammatically sound and relatively common comparative adjective phrase used to describe something that is not as direct, sharp, or focused. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is often used to soften statements or offer nuanced perspectives. Its prevalence in News & Media indicates a neutral register, adaptable to various writing contexts. Alternatives include ""more subtle"", ""less direct"", and "more understated", each offering slightly different nuances. When employing "less pointed", ensure the context provides clarity regarding the comparison being made.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more subtle

Indicates a decrease in directness and obviousness.

less direct

Implies a reduction in straightforwardness or bluntness.

more understated

Suggests a reduction in emphasis or prominence.

less sharp

Refers to a decrease in keenness or acuteness.

more gentle

Indicates a softer, milder approach.

more muted

Implies a reduction in intensity or volume.

less pronounced

Suggests a decrease in visibility or emphasis.

more implicit

Indicates that something is suggested but not directly expressed.

more ambiguous

Implies a lack of clarity or precision.

less explicit

Suggests that something is not directly stated or expressed.

FAQs

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

Use "less pointed" to describe something that is not as direct, sharp, or focused in its expression or intent. For example, "His later criticisms were "more subtle" and "less direct" than his earlier works."

What are some alternatives to using "less pointed"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like ""more subtle"", ""less direct"", or "more understated" to convey a similar meaning.

What's the difference between "less pointed" and "less relevant"?

"Less pointed" means something is less direct or sharp in its approach, while "less relevant" means something is less connected or important to the topic at hand. They are not interchangeable.

Is it always better to be "less pointed" in communication?

Not necessarily. While being "less pointed" can sometimes soften a message or make it more palatable, directness is often valued for clarity and efficiency. The best approach depends on the specific situation and audience.