less sharp

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less sharp" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not as pointed, intense, or clear as something else. Example: "The knife is less sharp than it used to be, making it difficult to cut through the vegetables."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Less sharp and jagged".

The New York Times

The backs were less sharp.

The Guardian - Sport

The fall was only marginally less sharp in Arizona.

The Guardian

In Lan's copy, the letters were "less sharp and blobbier".

The New Yorker

Sony's additional screen layers make the E Ink less sharp.

The New York Times

Reasonable, though much less sharp than Fox's Ice Age.

The Guardian

I remember my disappointment being less sharp than I'd expected.

The Guardian - Sport

Making the turns less sharp further reduced the complication.

The New York Times - Science

The book's own assessments are more generous but less sharp.

The New York Times - Books

The distinction between the fields has become less sharp with technical progress.

Britannica

As more women went out to work, discrimination became less sharp.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "less sharp" to describe an abstract concept, ensure the context clearly indicates what aspect is diminished. For example, "The distinction became less sharp over time" clarifies that the difference is what's becoming less defined.

Common error

Avoid using "less sharp" without a clear point of reference. Instead of saying "The image is less sharp", specify what it is less sharp than, such as "The digitally enhanced image is less sharp than the original photograph."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less sharp" primarily functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun by indicating a lower degree of sharpness relative to something else. As Ludwig AI suggests, this could refer to physical attributes like a knife's edge or abstract qualities such as the intensity of an emotion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less sharp" is a versatile comparative adjective phrase used to indicate a reduction in sharpness, clarity, or intensity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Academia. When using "less sharp", ensure a clear point of reference for comparison and consider the subtle nuances offered by alternative phrases such as "not as defined" or "somewhat duller". The phrase is suitable for a neutral register and is found in numerous authoritative sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not as defined

Emphasizes a reduction in the clarity or precision of an outline or boundary.

not as distinct

Focuses on a decrease in the clear separation or differentiation of elements.

somewhat duller

Highlights a slight decrease in keenness or effectiveness.

slightly blunter

Indicates a minor reduction in the sharpness or pointedness of something.

not so acute

Suggests a reduction in the severity or intensity of an angle or condition.

a bit more gentle

Implies a softer, milder, or less forceful quality.

not quite so keen

Focuses on a lessening of enthusiasm, interest, or effectiveness.

relatively soft

Indicates a gentler or less harsh nature compared to something else.

somewhat muted

Suggests a reduction in intensity, brightness, or loudness.

moderately subdued

Implies a calmer, less intense, or more restrained quality.

FAQs

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

You can use "less sharp" to describe something that is not as pointed, intense, or clear as something else. For example: "The knife is "less sharp" than it used to be, making it difficult to cut through the vegetables."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "less sharp"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "not as defined", "somewhat duller", or "slightly blunter".

Is it correct to say "less sharp" or should I use "not as sharp"?

Both "less sharp" and "not as sharp" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably in many contexts. The choice depends on stylistic preference and the specific nuance you want to convey.

In what contexts is the phrase "less sharp" commonly used?

The phrase "less sharp" is commonly used in contexts related to visual clarity (e.g., images, distinctions), physical sharpness (e.g., knives, edges), and abstract intensity (e.g., emotions, contrasts). It is prevalent in news, scientific, and academic writing.