less sincere

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less sincere" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or statement that lacks genuine feeling or honesty compared to something else. Example: "His apology felt less sincere than I had hoped, as he seemed more focused on avoiding consequences than expressing true remorse."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

This with a disgust no less sincere for being friendly.

The New Yorker

But there's nothing less sincere than an ad.

The New Yorker

"That doesn't make someone's coming out less sincere," he said.

The New York Times

Less sincere was Copland's claim that he had never knowingly consorted with a Party member.

The New Yorker

No one has ever sounded less sincere saying "This is a surprise".

The New York Times

In the face of terminal disease, her treatment feels less sincere.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

There is no reason to believe that Nascar is anything less than sincere when it says that increasing the sport's diversity is a priority -- at least as sincere as any business that sees untapped markets.

The New York Times

No one suggests that Mr. Giuliani is less than sincere when he says he is offended by that photo.

The New York Times

His music may not be authentic - he never pretended it was - but it is never less than sincere.

The Guardian - Music

The results were spotty, with one of the devices unable to detect the presence of digital television signals reliably.But the broadcasters are being less than sincere.

The Economist

If the implication was that other units' commitment to the destruction of ISIS was less than sincere, Rayyan's understanding of the distinction was personal.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "less sincere", ensure the comparison is clear. Specify what the subject is being compared to for a more precise and impactful statement.

Common error

While "less sincere" is acceptable, consider stronger alternatives like "disingenuous" or "insincere" in formal writing to convey a more precise and impactful message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less sincere" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun or pronoun by indicating that it possesses a lower degree of sincerity compared to something else. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "less sincere" is a commonly used comparative adjective phrase that indicates a reduced degree of genuineness or honesty. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts. It is most frequently found in news and media, where it is used to express nuanced judgments and critical assessments. When using this phrase, clarity in comparison is key. In more formal writing, consider stronger alternatives like "disingenuous". Remember that effective communication involves choosing the most precise and impactful language for your intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less genuine

Replaces "sincere" with a synonym emphasizing authenticity.

less authentic

Similar to "less genuine", focusing on the lack of originality or realness.

more disingenuous

Uses a more direct antonym of "sincere", highlighting deceptiveness.

less heartfelt

Focuses on the absence of deep feeling or emotion.

less earnest

Emphasizes a lack of serious or intense conviction.

less candid

Highlights a lack of frankness or openness.

less truthful

Shifts the focus to a lack of adherence to facts or reality.

somewhat insincere

Adds a qualifier to soften the criticism, implying a milder degree of insincerity.

not entirely sincere

Expresses doubt or reservation about the level of sincerity.

a bit phony

Uses a more informal and colloquial term to describe a lack of genuineness.

FAQs

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

You can use "less sincere" to compare the genuineness of two things. For example, "His apology seemed "less sincere" than his previous attempts at reconciliation.".

What are some alternatives to saying "less sincere"?

Alternatives include "less genuine", "more disingenuous", or "less heartfelt", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "less sincere" or "insincere"?

"Insincere" is a stronger, more direct term. "Less sincere" implies a comparison. Use "insincere" when you want to directly state a lack of sincerity without comparison.

What's the difference between "less sincere" and "not sincere"?

"Less sincere" suggests a relative lack of sincerity compared to something else, while "not sincere" is a more absolute statement indicating a complete absence of sincerity.