less straightforward than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less straightforward than" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to compare the complexity or clarity of two different subjects, indicating that one is more complicated than the other. Example: "The process of applying for a visa can be less straightforward than obtaining a passport."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But the issue may be less straightforward than it seems.

The New Yorker

That may be less straightforward than it sounds.

The Guardian - Sport

For the footwear manufacturer, the exercise turned out to be less straightforward than it initially appeared.

Harvard Business Review

For Facebook, the problem is less straightforward than finding Russia-linked pages and taking down content.

The New York Times - Tech

For years, though, there have been indications that the process is less straightforward than it seems.

The New Yorker

Passing or failing a standardized test is less straightforward than it seems.

The New York Times

However, the trend is less straightforward than that on non-motorised modes.

Transport Policy

But the asset price story is somewhat less straightforward than many have assumed.

The Economist

But the link between suffering and trauma is less straightforward than many assume.

The Economist

If the politics appears less straightforward than it used to, so too may be the economics.

Independent

As with any right, the right to make a copy is a lot less straightforward than it sounds.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "less straightforward than", ensure that the comparison is clear and the context provides enough information for the reader to understand the difference.

Common error

Avoid using "less straightforward than" when a simpler term like "more complex" or "more difficult" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily convoluted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less straightforward than" functions as a comparative, indicating that one thing is more complex or indirect than another. It's frequently used to highlight the nuanced differences between processes, ideas, or situations. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less straightforward than" is a commonly used comparative phrase to indicate complexity or indirectness. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability across various contexts. It is suitable for both formal and informal writing, although simpler alternatives might be preferred in some cases. Its frequent appearance in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian highlights its widespread acceptance and utility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more complex than

A direct synonym, focusing on the degree of complexity involved.

not as simple as

Expresses that something is more complicated than initially perceived.

not as clear-cut as

Suggests ambiguity or lack of definitive resolution.

more intricate than

Emphasizes the detailed and complicated nature, focusing on complexity.

more nuanced than

Highlights subtle differences and complexities often overlooked.

more convoluted than

Highlights the twisting and confusing aspect of something, suggesting a lack of clarity.

more indirect than

Focuses on the lack of a direct or obvious path or method.

more involved than

Indicates a higher level of engagement, difficulty, or entanglement.

more challenging than

Highlights the difficulty and effort required.

more labyrinthine than

Emphasizes the confusing and intricate structure, like a maze.

FAQs

How can I use "less straightforward than" in a sentence?

You can use "less straightforward than" to compare two things, indicating one is more complex or indirect. For example, "Applying for a loan is "less straightforward than" opening a bank account."

What are some alternatives to "less straightforward than"?

Alternatives include "more complex than", "more intricate than", or "not as simple as", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "less straightforward than" formal or informal?

"Less straightforward than" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although in highly formal writing, "more complex than" might be preferred.

When should I avoid using "less straightforward than"?

Avoid using "less straightforward than" when a simpler, more direct comparison is possible. For example, if something is simply "more difficult", using that term directly might be clearer.