less scope for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less scope for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a reduced opportunity or possibility for something to occur or be considered. Example: "With the new regulations in place, there is less scope for creative solutions in the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Disruptive kids have less scope for mischief.

The New Yorker

There is much less scope for support within this environment.

The Guardian

That provides much less scope for shelf deception.

The Economist

The "new era" will see less scope for dissent.

The Economist

Now, they have much less scope for leniency.

The Economist

Short-term interest rates of only 3% leave less scope for cuts.

The Economist

On the one hand, more transparency means less scope for corruption and profligacy.

The Economist

That way, there is less scope for conflicts of interest, the argument goes.

The Economist

There is less scope for deliberation and discussion – the pressure is to make a snap judgment and move on.

The Guardian - Opinion

There appears to be even less scope for the Lib Dems to make major inroads into Labour's heartlands.

The Guardian

They offer much less scope for operational improvements, the main way in which private-equity firms purport to create value.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "less scope for", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific opportunity or possibility is being reduced. For example, "With the new budget cuts, there's "less scope for" innovation."

Common error

Avoid using "less scope for" when "no scope for" is more appropriate. "Less scope" implies some possibility remains, while "no scope" indicates complete impossibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less scope for" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or verb, indicating a reduction in the extent, opportunity, or possibility associated with that noun or verb. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less scope for" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that effectively communicates a reduction in opportunity or possibility. Ludwig's analysis confirms its validity and usability across various contexts. It is most commonly found in news and media, scientific publications, and formal business settings, suggesting a neutral to professional register. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly defines what is being limited and consider alternative phrases like "reduced opportunity for" or "limited potential for" to add nuance. Ludwig also suggests paying attention to the degree of limitation you wish to convey, as sometimes "no scope for" might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reduced opportunity for

Emphasizes the reduction in available chances or openings.

limited potential for

Focuses on the restricted possibilities or future prospects.

decreased capacity for

Highlights the diminished ability or room to accommodate something.

narrowed margin for

Suggests a reduced allowance or tolerance for error or variation.

diminished room for

Indicates a smaller amount of space or latitude available.

less leeway for

Implies a reduction in flexibility or freedom of action.

restricted freedom for

Highlights constraints on liberty or autonomy.

curtailed possibility for

Emphasizes the limitation on potential future events.

less margin for

Similar to narrowed margin, focusing on reduced tolerance.

limited scope for

Using the adjective "limited" instead of "less".

FAQs

How can I use "less scope for" in a sentence?

You can use "less scope for" to indicate a reduced opportunity or possibility. For example, "Due to budget constraints, there is "less scope for" large-scale projects this year".

What is a synonym for "less scope for"?

Alternatives to "less scope for" include "reduced opportunity for", "limited potential for", or "decreased capacity for", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "less scope for" or "fewer scope for"?

"Less scope for" is the correct choice. "Scope" is generally treated as a non-countable noun, so "less" is appropriate. "Fewer" is used with countable nouns.

What's the difference between "less scope for" and "little scope for"?

"Less scope for" indicates a relative reduction, while "little scope for" suggests a very small amount or possibility, bordering on none. The choice depends on the degree of reduction you want to convey.