less pronounced

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less pronounced" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is usually used when referring to a decrease or decrease in magnitude or size. For example, you could say, "The financial recession of 2020 was less pronounced in smaller cities."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It was less pronounced at first.

The Economist

This trend was less pronounced by 1750.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Elsewhere the falls were less pronounced.

The Guardian - Business

The seasons are less pronounced on the Caribbean coast.

The New York Times

Although less pronounced, an analogous evolution characterized Burundi and Rwanda.

Encyclopedia Britannica

With ESPN's Total QBR, the differences are less pronounced.

The New York Times

Strangely, the feeling was less pronounced in times of solitude.

The New York Times

For men the differences are much less pronounced.

The Economist

Differences were less pronounced in multiparous cows.

Journal of Dairy Science

The cyclic shear hardening is less pronounced.

International Journal of Fatigue

Though this time, they seem a bit less pronounced.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "less pronounced" to describe a decrease in the intensity, degree, or visibility of something. It's particularly useful when comparing two scenarios where the difference is not drastic.

Common error

While "less pronounced" is suitable for many contexts, avoid overusing it in formal academic writing. Opt for more precise terms that quantify the difference or provide specific details.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less pronounced" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun by indicating a lower degree of intensity, visibility, or significance. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use in describing differences that are not drastic.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

49%

News & Media

28%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less pronounced" is a versatile comparative adjective phrase used to describe a difference or effect that is not as strong, noticeable, or significant as something else. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. It appears frequently in scientific and news contexts. While "less pronounced" is generally appropriate, more precise language may be preferable in formal academic writing. By understanding its function and purpose, writers can effectively use this phrase to convey nuanced comparisons.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less noticeable

Emphasizes a lower degree of visibility or detectability.

less distinct

Highlights a reduced clarity or differentiation.

less marked

Focuses on a diminished level of obviousness or prominence.

less significant

Indicates a lower level of importance or consequence.

less evident

Highlights a reduced level of being easily seen or understood.

less intense

Emphasizes a reduced level of strength or force.

weaker

A simpler term indicating reduced strength or effect.

milder

Suggests a gentler or less severe manifestation.

more subtle

Highlights an increased level of refinement or understatement.

diminished

Focuses on the act of decreasing or becoming smaller.

FAQs

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

You can use "less pronounced" to indicate that a difference or effect is not as strong or noticeable as something else. For example: "The impact of the new policy was "less pronounced" in rural areas than in urban centers."

What are some alternatives to "less pronounced"?

Alternatives to "less pronounced" include "less noticeable", "less distinct", or "more subtle". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "less pronounced" or "not as pronounced"?

"Less pronounced" and "not as pronounced" are often interchangeable, but "less pronounced" can sound more concise and formal. The choice depends on the desired tone and style of your writing.

What's the difference between "less pronounced" and "least pronounced"?

"Less pronounced" compares two things, indicating one is lower in intensity. "Least pronounced" indicates the lowest level of intensity among three or more things. For example: "Among all the symptoms, the headache was the "least pronounced"."