less smart

USAGE SUMMARY

"less smart" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is an adjective meaning not as intelligent as something else, and can be used to describe a person or thing. For example, "The older model of laptop was less smart than the new model."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Less smart.

University of California, Berkeley

He looked less smart than he was.

The New Yorker

Yes, Congress is getting less smart.

The Washington Post

Felt sad, and much less smart.

The New York Times

And the things that sound less smart, make that Jim.

The New York Times

Less smart ones had taken punts on the securities themselves.

The Economist

"You don't become less smart," Dr. Webb says.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

THSR's contact-less smart cards allow the cardholder to travel between specific stations within a given time period for a certain number of rides.

Wikipedia

SmarTrip was the first contact-less smart card for transit in the United States when WMATA began selling SmarTrip cards on May 18 , 1999

Wikipedia

The show's critics complain that it is a less-smart ripoff of "The Simpsons," and MacFarlane acknowledges that Matt Groening was a huge inspiration.

The New Yorker

There was some less smart stuff in there.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing intelligence levels, ensure the context is clear to avoid unintended offense. For example, instead of simply stating someone is "less smart", specify the area in which they are less knowledgeable or skilled.

Common error

Avoid using "less smart" as a blanket statement about a person's overall intelligence. Intelligence is multifaceted; someone might be "less smart" in one area but highly skilled in another. Be specific about the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less smart" functions primarily as a comparative adjective. It's used to describe something or someone that possesses a lower degree of intelligence or capability relative to another. As Ludwig AI points out, it's a common way to make comparisons.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

84%

Academia

7%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "less smart" is a commonly used comparative adjective that effectively conveys a lower level of intelligence or capability in relation to something else. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is both grammatically correct and frequently used across diverse contexts, primarily in news and media. When writing, while it's generally acceptable, it's important to be mindful of the context. In more formal settings, you might consider using more precise and respectful alternatives such as "less intelligent" or "lacking expertise". Remember that intelligence is multifaceted, and using "less smart" as a blanket statement should be avoided to maintain clarity and avoid unintended offense. In summary, while "less smart" is widely understood and used, careful consideration of context and audience will ensure the most effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less intelligent

Direct synonym replacement of "smart" with "intelligent", increasing formality slightly.

not as intelligent

Replaces "less smart" with a more formal and direct comparison of intelligence.

not as bright

Substitutes "smart" with "bright", offering a slightly more colloquial tone.

less astute

Substitute to less observant or perceptive.

not quite as clever

Uses "clever" instead of "smart", adding a touch of informality and implying ingenuity.

of lower intelligence

Rephrases to emphasize a deficiency in intelligence using a more technical term.

not the sharpest

Employs an idiomatic expression to convey a lack of intelligence in a humorous way.

dimmer than

A more figurative and informal way to suggest someone is not as intelligent.

intellectually inferior

Presents a more academic and formal comparison of intellectual ability.

lacking in acumen

Replaces "smart" with "acumen", focusing on a deficiency in sharpness and insight.

FAQs

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

You can use "less smart" to compare the intelligence or capabilities of two subjects. For example, "This phone is "less smart" than the previous model because it lacks advanced features."

What's a more formal alternative to "less smart"?

Alternatives to "less smart" include "less intelligent", "intellectually inferior", or "not as astute", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "less smart" in professional writing?

While "less smart" is generally understood, it may be perceived as informal in some professional contexts. Consider using more precise and respectful language, such as "lacking expertise in this area" or "less experienced with this technology."

What's the difference between "less smart" and "unintelligent"?

"Less smart" implies a comparison—something is not as intelligent as something else. "Unintelligent" is a more absolute term, suggesting a general lack of intelligence. The choice depends on whether you're making a comparison or a direct assessment.