less than expected

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less than expected" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to describe something that did not meet the expectations or standards of someone. Example: The company's profits were less than expected, causing disappointment among its shareholders.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

U.S. Jobless Claims Drop Less Than Expected.

Forbes

Ticket income was also less than expected.

The New York Times - Science

Inventories rose 0.1percentt, less than expected.

The New York Times

The drop was less than expected.

The New York Times

Results show that differences among technologies are less than expected.

Chemosphere

The emission of HCN and NH3 were less than expected.

Chemosphere

Amount of knowledge relevant to conservation was less than expected.

Journal for Nature Conservation

But analysts said sales had been less than expected.

The New York Times

Consumer prices rise less than expected in May.

The New Yorker

The cost per person is actually less than expected.

The New York Times

But tax receipts have climbed less than expected.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "below expectations" or "under projections" for varied expression and to avoid repetition.

Common error

Avoid using "less than expected" when you mean something was surprisingly good. This phrase implies a negative deviation from an anticipated outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less than expected" primarily functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, indicating that a certain quantity, level, or outcome is lower or smaller than what was anticipated. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and common in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

37%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less than expected" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate a deviation from an anticipated outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted in written English. Its primary function is to express a shortfall or discrepancy, often implying a negative result or a need for further analysis. It appears most frequently in News & Media and Science contexts, maintaining a generally neutral tone. When using this phrase, ensure you provide clear context regarding the original expectation to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lower than anticipated

A direct substitution, focusing on the quantity or level being lower than initially thought.

below expectations

Replaces "expected" with "expectations", focusing on the anticipated level of performance or results.

smaller than forecast

Emphasizes the size or quantity being smaller than what was predicted.

short of predictions

Emphasizes a shortfall compared to a specific forecast or prediction.

under projections

Similar to "short of predictions", but specifically refers to projected figures or estimates.

disappointing results

Highlights the unsatisfactory nature of the outcome, focusing on the disappointment caused.

fell short of anticipated levels

More formal and detailed, emphasizing the failure to reach a previously set target.

underperformed

Implies a failure to meet performance benchmarks or expectations.

did not measure up

Suggests a failure to meet a certain standard or expectation.

came in below par

Uses a golfing metaphor to indicate a performance that was not up to the expected standard.

FAQs

What does "less than expected" mean?

The phrase "less than expected" means that the actual outcome or result was smaller or lower than what was anticipated or predicted. It implies a deviation from a certain expectation.

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

You can use "less than expected" to describe various situations. For example: "The company's profits were "below expectations" this quarter", or "The turnout for the event was "lower than anticipated"".

What are some alternatives to "less than expected"?

Alternatives to "less than expected" include "below expectations", "short of predictions", "under projections", or "disappointing results", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "less than expected" in formal writing?

Yes, "less than expected" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in contexts where you need to objectively report a deviation from anticipated outcomes. It is commonly used in business reports, academic papers, and news articles.