less rigorous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less rigorous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not as strict or demanding in terms of standards or requirements. Example: "The new policy is less rigorous than the previous one, allowing for more flexibility in compliance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Perhaps this moral assurance led to less rigorous plotting.

The Guardian - Books

But officials insist it is no less rigorous.

The New York Times

It also points the regulatory environment in Canada, which can be less rigorous.

The New York Times

A less rigorous writer might have turned this story into a sentimental, overwritten swamp.

The New York Times - Books

Federal regulations required that token of status, no less rigorous than the Pentagon's dress code.

The New York Times - Magazine

Prisoners are escorted from their high-security cellblocks to a less rigorous setting.

The New York Times

And this year, Fassel has made his training camp less rigorous.

The New York Times - Sports

Admissions standards to the selective public colleges will inevitably drop; course requirements will become less rigorous.

The New York Times

Some within Boko Haram are hardline Sunni Salafis, others are less rigorous.

The Guardian

And the Internet reduces the academic price that students pay for going to less rigorous schools.

The New York Times

It relies heavily on metaphor and paradox and is no less rigorous than science.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing standards or requirements, use "less rigorous" to indicate a conscious decision to reduce the level of strictness or intensity. This can highlight a shift towards practicality or accessibility.

Common error

In highly formal or professional writing, avoid relying solely on "less rigorous". Instead, opt for more precise language that clarifies the specific aspect that is "more lenient" or "more flexible". This provides readers with a clearer understanding of the changes implemented.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less rigorous" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies nouns by indicating a lower degree of strictness, severity, or intensity. Ludwig AI confirms this is a correct and usable phrase, as illustrated in the examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less rigorous" is a grammatically sound and widely used adjective phrase that describes a reduction in strictness or intensity. According to Ludwig AI, this is correct and usable in written English. It is common in news, science, and formal business contexts. When writing, consider the specific context to choose the most appropriate alternative, such as "less stringent" or "more flexible". Be mindful of overusing it in formal settings and aim for clarity by specifying what aspects are "more lenient". Overall, "less rigorous" is a versatile phrase for indicating a deliberate decrease in demands.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less stringent

Focuses specifically on a reduction in strict rules or regulations.

less demanding

Highlights a reduction in the level of effort or skill required.

less strict

Emphasizes a decrease in the severity of enforcement or adherence.

more lenient

Suggests a greater degree of permissiveness or tolerance.

more flexible

Indicates an increase in adaptability and a reduction in fixed constraints.

more relaxed

Conveys a decrease in tension or pressure, implying an easier approach.

less intense

Indicates a decrease in the strength or degree of something such as effort or scrutiny.

less severe

Focuses on a reduction in harshness or seriousness.

easier

A general term indicating reduced difficulty.

simplified

Highlights that a process or method has been made easier to understand or implement.

FAQs

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

You can use "less rigorous" to describe a process, standard, or requirement that has been made less strict or demanding. For example, "The new testing procedure is "less rigorous" than the previous one."

What is a good alternative to "less rigorous"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "more lenient", "more flexible", or "less stringent". The best choice will depend on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What does it mean when something is described as "less rigorous"?

When something is described as "less rigorous", it means that it is not as strict, demanding, or thorough as something else. This can apply to rules, standards, processes, or methods.

Is it better to have a rigorous or a "less rigorous" approach?

Whether a rigorous or ""less rigorous"" approach is better depends on the situation. A rigorous approach ensures thoroughness and accuracy, while a ""less rigorous"" approach can be more practical and efficient, especially when strictness is not essential.