less popular

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less popular" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
For example, you could use it in a sentence like this: The blue shirt is less popular than the red shirt, but it's still a best-seller.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Less popular?

The New Yorker

It is less popular now.

The New Yorker

Sacrifices are less popular.

The New York Times

Uzbek is less popular.

The Guardian

Membership has never been less popular.

The New York Times

Outside Europe organic farming is less popular.

The Economist

They were less popular with tour operators.

The New York Times

But the opposition is even less popular.

The Economist

Perez could be even less popular.

The New York Times - Sports

The Family Reunion (1939) was less popular.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He was smaller, younger, less popular.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing the popularity of two or more items, ensure that the comparison is clear and specific. For instance, instead of simply stating "Product A is "less popular"", provide context: "Product A is "less popular" among younger demographics compared to Product B".

Common error

Avoid using "less popular" without providing context or comparison. Saying something is "less popular" without specifying what it's less popular than can lead to ambiguity and weaken your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less popular" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It is used to modify a noun by indicating that it has a lower degree of popularity compared to something else. Ludwig shows examples where it is used to describe items, trends, or even political figures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

13%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less popular" is a grammatically sound and frequently used comparative adjective phrase that indicates a lower degree of favor or prevalence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage across diverse sources, predominantly in news and media. When using this phrase, ensure you provide context for comparison to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "not as widespread" or "not as favored" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to avoid overgeneralization and always clarify what is "less popular" than what. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use the phrase "less popular" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not as favored

Directly indicates a lower preference compared to something else.

less in demand

Emphasizes the reduced desire or need for something.

not as common

Stresses the rarity or infrequency of something.

not as widespread

Focuses on the extent of distribution or adoption rather than direct appeal.

not as mainstream

Indicates something that is outside of the dominant or conventional current.

not as well-received

Highlights the negative or lukewarm reaction something gets.

less fashionable

Implies a decline in current trendiness or style.

less trendy

Similar to "less fashionable" but can apply to broader contexts than just fashion.

less prominent

Indicates reduced visibility or importance.

lower-profile

Describes something that attracts less attention or publicity.

FAQs

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

You can use "less popular" to compare the relative popularity of two or more things. For example: "The blue shirt is "less popular" than the red shirt", or "Classical music is "less popular" among teenagers than pop music".

What's a synonym for "less popular"?

Alternatives to "less popular" include "not as widespread", "less fashionable", or "not as favored", depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "less popular"?

Yes, "less popular" is grammatically correct. The adjective "popular" is a gradable adjective, meaning its degree can be modified by "less".

What is the difference between "less popular" and "unpopular"?

"Less popular" implies a lower degree of popularity compared to something else, while "unpopular" suggests a general lack of favor or widespread dislike. Something can be "less popular" without being completely "unpopular".