less suitable for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less suitable for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the appropriateness or fit of something for a particular purpose or context. Example: "This material is less suitable for outdoor use due to its sensitivity to moisture."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Nevile's research found that the programme was less suitable for older people.

The Guardian

As each day passes, the three bodies are becoming less and less suitable for public view.

The Guardian

BlackRock's proposal suggests that these volatile instruments are less suitable for retail investors.

The New York Times

There may be no place on earth less suitable for a shootout than in front of the Empire State Building.

The New York Times

Here's one more, from Stanford University: Climate change might make Napa Valley less suitable for cabernet sauvignon in 30 years.

The New York Times

The extreme growth of phytoplankton under these conditions makes the water turbid and less suitable for bathing.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It worked well for cooking, cleaning and sitting around a table, but was deemed less suitable for studying.

The Economist

Homogenization of cream reduces the size of the fat globules, and the resulting product is less suitable for whipping.

Encyclopedia Britannica

To that will be added Japanese fare that tends to be even less suitable for children.

Forbes

Besides, these methods are also less suitable for routine use to support experimental identification of metabolites.

Chemistry Central Journal

So, they are less suitable for real situations with limited prior knowledge.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "less suitable for", clearly specify the reason for the reduced suitability to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "less suitable for" without explaining why something is less suitable. This can leave the reader confused or misinformed. Always provide the rationale.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less suitable for" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, indicating that something is not as appropriate or well-matched for a particular purpose as another option. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness and common usage, offering numerous examples across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

66%

News & Media

20%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less suitable for" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for expressing comparative inappropriateness. Ludwig AI analysis, supported by numerous examples, confirms its correctness and utility across varied contexts, particularly in science and news media. When using this phrase, it's crucial to provide context explaining why something is less suitable. Alternatives like "not as well-suited to" or "less appropriate for" offer subtle variations in meaning. Therefore, "less suitable for" is a powerful tool for nuanced communication when used thoughtfully.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less appropriate for

Directly states a lower degree of appropriateness.

not as well-suited to

Emphasizes a diminished level of appropriateness compared to something else.

less fitting for

Implies a poorer match or alignment.

not ideal for

Indicates that something is not the best option, but still potentially usable.

relatively unsuited to

Emphasizes a comparative lack of suitability.

not the best choice for

Highlights that a different option would be preferable.

not particularly adapted for

Focuses on a lack of specific adaptation to a situation.

not especially designed for

Highlights a lack of intentional design for a specific purpose.

suboptimal for

Suggests performance will be below the ideal level.

less conducive to

Indicates a negative influence on a desired outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "less suitable for" in a sentence?

Use "less suitable for" to indicate that something is not as appropriate or effective for a particular purpose compared to something else. For example, "This type of paint is "less suitable for" outdoor use".

What are some alternatives to "less suitable for"?

Alternatives include "not as well-suited to", "less appropriate for", or "not ideal for", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

When should I use "less suitable for" instead of "unsuitable for"?

"Less suitable for" implies a comparative lack of appropriateness, while "unsuitable for" suggests complete inappropriateness. Use "less suitable for" when something can still be used, but is not the best choice. For example, the material is "less suitable for" outdoor use due to its sensitivity to moisture, but that doesn't make it entirely unsuitable.

Is it grammatically correct to say "less suitable for"?

Yes, the phrase "less suitable for" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English to express that something is not as appropriate or effective as another option.