less than encouraging

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less than encouraging" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, feedback, or response that is not very positive or supportive. Example: "The feedback I received from my presentation was less than encouraging, which made me reconsider my approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

Even field guides are less than encouraging.

The New Yorker

However, the response was less than encouraging.

Independent

Ms. Sumner, while no scaremonger, was less than encouraging.

The New York Times

The taxi driver from York was less than encouraging.

The Guardian - Travel

Dr. Levinton's prognosis on this set, though, was less than encouraging.

The New Yorker

Even in the world of the fictional mob, the situation is less than encouraging.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Today, as I was giving myself the less-than-encouraging pep talk in my head as I was deciding on what to wear it occurred to me how hypocritical I am.

Huffington Post

The subtext seems to be that even if it's in third place in terms of operating system shipments, it's still the one bringing in money — an apt point considering Samsung's less-than-encouraging profit guidance issued just yesterday.

TechCrunch

The less-than-encouraging reports out of the tech sector paled in comparison to the carnage at Merrill Lynch though, as the firm recorded a second-quarter loss of $4.97 a share, more than twice the expected $1.91.

Forbes

Some of the mobile phone's biggest boosters are those who believe that pumping international aid money into poor countries is less effective than encouraging economic growth through commerce, also called "inclusive capitalism".

The New York Times - Magazine

"Solving for guys' specific skin needs is actually far less challenging than encouraging them to engage in a category they've been led to believe is not necessarily for them". Founded in 2013, Harry's roots are in men's razors and shave products, rounded out with a tight range of skincare products to complement the shave routine: a face wash, a face lotion, and duo of soothing post-shave products.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "less than encouraging", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. Alternatives like "disheartening" or "unpromising" may be more appropriate depending on the context.

Common error

While acceptable, "less than encouraging" can sometimes sound informal. In formal reports or academic papers, consider using more direct and impactful language, such as "disappointing results" or "limited success".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less than encouraging" functions as an adjective phrase, typically modifying a noun to describe a situation, result, or feedback that is not positive or supportive. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

84%

Science

9%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less than encouraging" is a grammatically correct and commonly used adjective phrase that describes something not particularly positive or supportive. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and provides numerous real-world examples. While versatile, it's essential to consider context; more direct language might be suitable for formal writing. Alternatives such as "somewhat discouraging" or "not particularly promising" offer subtle variations in tone. It is found most frequently in News & Media contexts, showing its broad applicability in describing various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat discouraging

Emphasizes a slight decrease in enthusiasm or hope.

not particularly promising

Focuses on the lack of future potential or positive outlook.

uninspiring

Highlights the absence of motivation or excitement.

rather disheartening

Suggests a moderate level of disappointment or loss of spirit.

not especially optimistic

Indicates a lack of positive expectations.

failing to inspire confidence

Highlights that it does not give people trust that things will go well.

dim prospects

Highlights the lack of a positive outcome or progress.

moderately disappointing

Suggests a mild degree of disillusionment or frustration.

making one wonder

Focuses on producing feelings of uncertainty or doubt.

casting doubts

Highlights the lack of confidence and skepticism about the future.

FAQs

What does "less than encouraging" mean?

The phrase "less than encouraging" describes something that is not particularly positive, supportive, or hopeful. It implies a mild degree of discouragement or a lack of enthusiasm.

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

You can use "less than encouraging" to describe feedback, results, or situations that are not very positive. For example: "The initial response to our proposal was "less than encouraging", so we revised our approach."

What are some alternatives to "less than encouraging"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "somewhat discouraging", "not particularly promising", or "uninspiring".

Is "less than encouraging" formal or informal?

The phrase "less than encouraging" is generally considered neutral to slightly informal. In very formal contexts, consider stronger or more direct alternatives like "disappointing" or "limited".