less strongly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less strongly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to reduce emphasis on something. For example, "I am less strongly in favor of the plan than I once was."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I feel less strongly than I did.

The Guardian

"I feel less strongly about it [now].

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Flat prices have performed much less strongly than, for example, detached houses and are now falling.

The Guardian - Business

Two others, he said, attendance at services and overall religiousness, were also associated, only less strongly.

The New York Times - Health

I feel no less strongly than these Hamas people talking about resistance.

The New York Times

The idea that the suffragettes were irrational, even mad, women features less strongly in the Guardian.

The Guardian

This suggests the agreement will continue to shape Iranian politics, even if less strongly over time.

The Guardian

For Arnett, the particulars of Wilkin's analysis registered less strongly than the ranking.

The New Yorker

A study has found that as people age, their brains respond less strongly to rewards.

The New York Times - Health

Thunder is again predicted, albeit less strongly, on Saturday and Sunday.

The Guardian - Sport

The westerlies of the Southern Hemisphere are much less strongly affected by standing disturbances.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "less strongly" to convey a nuanced reduction in intensity, force, or conviction. This can soften statements and avoid overstatement.

Common error

Avoid using "less strongly" excessively in formal writing. It can sometimes make your argument sound hesitant or uncertain. Opt for more precise language to convey your intended meaning with greater clarity.

Linguistic Context

"Less strongly" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs to indicate a reduced degree of intensity or force. Examples from Ludwig show its use in contexts ranging from expressing diminished feelings to describing weaker relationships between variables. According to Ludwig, it is perfectly acceptable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

39%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less strongly" is a grammatically sound and commonly used adverbial phrase that effectively conveys a reduced degree of intensity or force. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for various contexts, with a slight leaning towards scientific and news-related content. When writing, remember to use "less strongly" to add nuance to your statements and avoid overstatements. However, be mindful of overuse in formal writing, as it may weaken your argument. Consider alternatives like "to a lesser extent" or "with "less intensity"" for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to a lesser extent

Indicates a reduced degree or scope of something.

with less intensity

Focuses on the reduced level of force or energy.

not as powerfully

Highlights the diminished strength or influence.

to a smaller degree

Emphasizes the reduced quantity or proportion.

less intensely

Similar to 'with less intensity', but emphasizes the emotional or sensory experience.

somewhat weaker

Implies a noticeable but not drastic reduction in strength.

not as forcefully

Emphasizes a reduction in the directness or impact of an action.

with reduced emphasis

Focuses on downplaying the importance or significance.

in a more subdued manner

Highlights a reduction in expressiveness or assertiveness.

with diminished impact

Emphasizes that something has a reduced effect or influence.

FAQs

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

You can use "less strongly" to indicate a reduced degree of intensity or conviction. For example, "I now feel "less strongly" about the need for immediate action than I did before".

What are some alternatives to saying "less strongly"?

Alternatives include phrases like "to a lesser extent", "with "less intensity"", or "not as powerfully", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to use "less strongly"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Less" is used to compare degrees of adverbs and adjectives, and "strongly" is an adverb. Therefore, "less strongly" is a valid comparative adverbial phrase.

When should I use "less strongly" instead of "weaker"?

"Less strongly" is typically used to describe the degree of force, intensity, or conviction, whereas "weaker" generally refers to physical strength or a general reduction in effectiveness. For example, "I support the proposal "less strongly" now" versus "a weaker economy".