less than bonds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less than bonds" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts comparing values, quantities, or qualities, indicating that something is inferior or lower in comparison to bonds. Example: "The returns on these stocks are less than bonds, making them a less attractive investment option."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Preferred stocks cost less than bonds to own on a per-share basis, are less volatile than common stocks and are more liquid than many bonds, as they trade on the New York Stock Exchange and over-the-counter markets.

The New York Times

CBO assumes that the new accounts will earn significantly less than bonds and stocks have earned historically.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Stocks in China have been less affected than bonds by inflation and interest rate worries.

The New York Times

Rodriguez, less combative than Bonds, may not encounter the same volume of hostility, but he is certain to encounter some of the treatment Bonds received.

The New York Times - Sports

On the other hand, Mr. Schatsky said, should the economic situation become even gloomier, short-term bonds might be less risky than bonds with longer maturity dates.

The New York Times

Because of their proximity to the bond market, preferred shares proved somewhat less volatile than bonds, which fell more than 5 percent for the same period, as tracked by the S&P/BGCantor 7-10 Year U.S. Treasury Bond Index.

The New York Times

In that year, the book "Dow 36,000" confidently declared that stocks were "actually less risky than bonds" and that the Dow would more than triple in value within a few short years.

The New York Times

In this situation, the common rule prevails: Stock prices are more volatile, less "stubborn" than bonds.

Forbes

In fact, if one has a 20-year time horizon, the data presented below from Ibbotson Associates might suggest that equities are less risky than bonds.

Forbes

Because people wrongly view preferreds as less safe than bonds, the preferreds tend to have better yields and lower conversion premiums.

Forbes

In the past these preferreds enjoyed higher yields and less volatility than bonds, mainly because large institutions don't bother to deal in such small issues.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing investment options, use "less than bonds" to clearly indicate a lower return, risk, or other relevant metric. Ensure the context specifies what aspect is "less".

Common error

Avoid assuming that being "less than bonds" is always unfavorable. Depending on the investor's risk tolerance or financial goals, assets with characteristics "less than bonds", such as higher liquidity or growth potential, might be preferred.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less than bonds" functions primarily as a comparative adjective phrase. It is used to describe something that possesses a lower degree of a particular quality (risk, return, volatility, etc.) when compared to bonds. As supported by Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable and understandable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less than bonds" is a comparative term used to describe something that is inferior or lower in comparison to bonds, particularly in financial contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness. While not exceedingly common, it appears primarily in news and media, and science sources. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the attribute being compared (e.g., risk, return). Be cautious not to assume that being "less than bonds" is universally negative, as it depends on the specific needs and goals of the investor.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lower than bonds

Replaces "less" with "lower", emphasizing a diminished quantity or level compared to bonds.

inferior to bonds

Substitutes "less than" with "inferior to", highlighting a lower quality or status relative to bonds.

smaller than bonds

Replaces "less" with "smaller", focusing on size or amount in comparison to bonds.

not as much as bonds

Uses a more explicit comparison to indicate a reduced quantity compared to bonds.

below bonds

Indicates a position or level that is beneath or lower than that of bonds.

fewer than bonds

Emphasizes a smaller number or quantity when compared to bonds.

reduced compared to bonds

Highlights the act of diminishing or decreasing in relation to bonds.

diminished relative to bonds

Focuses on the idea of something becoming smaller or less significant compared to bonds.

a fraction of bonds

Indicates that something is only a small part or proportion of bonds.

at a disadvantage compared to bonds

Highlights the concept of being in a less favorable position when compared to bonds.

FAQs

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

You can use "less than bonds" to compare the characteristics of different investment options. For example, "The risk associated with this stock is "less than bonds", making it suitable for conservative investors".

What's a good alternative to "less than bonds"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "less than bonds" include "lower than bonds", "inferior to bonds", or "smaller than bonds". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always bad if an investment is "less than bonds"?

Not necessarily. While bonds are often seen as a safe investment, an investment being "less than bonds" in some aspect (like risk) may be desirable for certain investors seeking higher potential returns or greater liquidity.

In what situations might I prefer an investment that is "less than bonds"?

If you are willing to accept higher risk for the potential of higher returns, or if you need greater liquidity, you might prefer investments that are "less than bonds" in terms of safety and stability. For example, growth stocks typically offer higher potential returns but also carry higher risk.