less precise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less precise" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the accuracy or clarity of two or more things, indicating that one is not as exact as the other. Example: "The initial measurements were less precise than the final calculations, leading to discrepancies in the results."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Less precise.

The New York Times - Sports

Figures for other states are less precise.

The Economist

"They are less precise but better connected".

The New Yorker

Mr. Albo advocates a less precise regime.

The New York Times

An answer less precise than no.

The New Yorker

Sending sensations into the receiver's brain is even less precise.

The Guardian

This information can be more or less precise or accurate.

The Washington Post

But such programs are less precise than Braille displays.

The New York Times - Tech

And then there were different sounds, less precise than words.

The New Yorker

Less precise genocide is not necessarily less bloody.

The Economist

Rates by state are less precise but vary widely.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two methods or results, use "less precise" to indicate which one offers lower accuracy or detail. For instance, "Method A is less precise than Method B, but it is faster."

Common error

Avoid using "less precise" when you actually mean "less accurate". Precision refers to the level of detail, while accuracy refers to the closeness to the true value. A measurement can be precise but inaccurate, and vice versa.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less precise" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a lower degree of exactness or accuracy. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is generally accepted and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

33%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less precise" is a grammatically sound and frequently used comparative adjective phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It serves to indicate a reduced level of exactness or accuracy when comparing two or more items. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse contexts, including news, scientific, and academic settings. While alternatives like ""less accurate"" or ""more approximate"" exist, "less precise" offers a distinct emphasis on the level of detail provided, as opposed to absolute correctness. When using this term, remember to consider the context and ensure it accurately reflects the intended comparison.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less exact

Similar to "less accurate", but emphasizes a strict adherence to standards.

less accurate

Focuses specifically on the deviation from a true or correct value.

less specific

Indicates a broader or more general scope, lacking detail.

more approximate

Highlights that something is not exact but close enough for a specific purpose.

less clear-cut

Indicates something is not straightforward or easily determined.

less well-defined

Emphasizes a lack of clarity or distinctness in definition or boundaries.

more generalized

Suggests a broader application that does not account for finer details.

more loosely defined

Highlights that a definition is not strict or rigid.

more ambiguous

Suggests that something is open to multiple interpretations.

not as sharply delineated

Focuses on the lack of clear boundaries or distinctions.

FAQs

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

You can use "less precise" to compare the accuracy or clarity of two things. For example, "The initial estimate was "less precise" than the final calculation."

What's a good alternative to "less precise"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "less accurate", "more approximate", or "less specific".

Is "less precise" grammatically correct?

Yes, "less precise" is grammatically correct. It's a common and accepted way to express a lower degree of precision.

What is the difference between "less precise" and "less accurate"?

"Less precise" refers to a lack of detail or refinement, while "less accurate" refers to a deviation from a true value. Something can be "less precise" but still relatively accurate, and vice versa.