less prone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'less prone' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to denote that something is less likely or has a reduced probability of happening. For example: "The updated design of the engine is less prone to failure than the previous version."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We're lazier, too, less prone to experimentation.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Supple, well-stretched muscles are less prone to injury.

Harvard University

This is much simpler and less prone to noise.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The fever remained, but I was less prone to chills.

The New Yorker

They were less prone to tipping forward than quad skates.

The New Yorker

Women are less prone to entitlement humor than men.

The New York Times

Critics are no less prone to this fallacy.

The New Yorker

Will the latter be less prone to obsolescence?

The Guardian - Tech

They are bigger, stronger and less prone to contagious infection.

The Economist

They are also less prone to cyclical swings.

The Economist

Today IT departments are much less prone to wasting money.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "less prone" to clearly indicate a reduced risk or likelihood, but always specify what the subject is less prone to. For instance, "This material is less prone to corrosion" is more effective than simply stating "This material is less prone."

Common error

Avoid using "less prone" without specifying the context or the specific issue something is less prone to. For example, instead of saying "This design is less prone", clarify with "This design is less prone to errors during assembly."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less prone" functions as a predicative adjective phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a reduced likelihood or susceptibility to a particular condition or event. Ludwig confirms this usage, providing numerous examples across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

28%

Science

22%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "less prone" is a versatile and widely used adjective phrase that indicates a reduced likelihood or susceptibility to a particular condition or event. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions grammatically as a predicative adjective, modifying nouns or pronouns to convey this decreased probability. Its usage spans across various contexts, from news and media to academic and scientific writing, although it maintains a generally neutral to formal register.

Alternatives like "less vulnerable", "less likely", and "less susceptible" offer similar meanings, allowing for nuanced expression. To ensure clarity, it's best practice to specify what the subject is less prone to, avoiding overgeneralizations. Ludwig’s examples show the importance of proper context when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not as prone

Simply rephrases the original using "not as" for emphasis.

less susceptible

This alternative emphasizes a reduced sensitivity or vulnerability to something.

not as susceptible

Alternative using "not as" with "susceptible" for a slight variation.

less vulnerable

Focuses on a decreased state of being open to harm or damage.

less inclined

Indicates a reduced tendency or willingness to do something.

less likely

A general term for a reduced probability of occurrence.

less subject to

Highlights a decreased exposure or subjection to something.

less apt to

Suggests a diminished natural tendency or suitability.

less predisposed

Highlights a reduced inherent tendency or inclination.

less sensitive

Emphasizes reduced reactivity to external stimuli or influences.

FAQs

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

Use "less prone" to describe something with a reduced likelihood of experiencing a specific negative outcome. For instance, "The new software is "less prone" to crashes" or "Properly inflated tires are "less prone" to blowouts".

What are some alternatives to "less prone"?

You can use alternatives such as "less vulnerable", "less likely", or "less susceptible" depending on the specific context. The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "least prone" instead of "less prone"?

Yes, "least prone" is correct, but it signifies the lowest likelihood among a group, while ""less prone"" indicates a reduced likelihood compared to a specific baseline or another item.

What's the difference between "less prone" and "less inclined"?

"Less prone" typically refers to a reduced susceptibility to something undesirable, while "less inclined" describes a reduced willingness or tendency to do something. For example, "This type of metal is "less prone" to rust", versus "I am less inclined to go out tonight".