less than well

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less than well" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or performance that is not satisfactory or below expectations. Example: "Her presentation was less than well received by the audience, leading to a lot of questions and concerns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Many of those who come to the cafe are less than well known.

The New York Times - Arts

Even when the storytelling swerves into Gothic melodrama, the clinical detail is never less than, well, instructive.

The New York Times - Books

But it has a less prosperous air than similar communities; its houses are more modest, some less than well maintained.

The New York Times

The impact of his crazy-sounding spinning mirrors on the economics of astronomy would be nothing less than, well, revolutionary.

The Economist

Other restaurants on Capri had equally good food (nowhere did we eat less than well), but the Brunella offered us unmatchable seating.

The New York Times - Travel

Those words -- not surprisingly -- were less than well received by the bevy of ferret lovers assembled at City Hall for the mayor's action on the bill.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Bringing back a character from the less-than-well-received Incredible Hulk, from 2008, seems like risky business.

The Guardian - Film

But I've come to look upon the tiny, less-than-well-equipped kitchen as a delicious challenge.

The New York Times - Food

(Working in the tannery, among the bloody skins and the giant rats that gnawed on them, left young Ulysses permanently unable to eat less-than-well-done meat).

The New Yorker

In the less-than-well-received See You in the Morning (1989), Jeff Bridges and Alice Krige played a recently married couple whose ex-spouses (Farrah Fawcett and David Dukes) and children (Macaulay Culkin and Drew Barrymore) conspire to make their transition a bumpy one.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Last year he wrote a less-than-well-received post here on TechCrunch called "The Secret Strategies Behind Many "Viral" Videos".

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "less than well", consider the specific context to ensure the phrase accurately reflects the degree of deficiency or inadequacy you intend to convey. Alternatives may offer more precision.

Common error

Avoid using "less than well" as a vague euphemism to soften criticism when more direct and constructive feedback is appropriate. Clarity is key for effective communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less than well" functions as an adverbial modifier, typically describing the manner in which an action is performed or a state exists. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

24%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less than well" is a versatile expression used to indicate deficiency or inadequacy. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase as grammatically correct and frequently found in news, scientific, and general writing contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to consider more precise language for formal settings. The phrase can be considered to be "not very good" and has a number of synonyms depending on context and nuance. When using "less than well", consider the specific context to ensure accuracy and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not very good

This alternative offers a simpler and more direct way to express a lack of quality.

subpar

This alternative is a concise term indicating performance below the expected standard.

not up to par

This alternative is an idiomatic expression indicating something does not meet expectations or standards.

deficient

This alternative suggests a specific lack or shortage in some required aspect.

inadequate

This alternative indicates that something is insufficient or not good enough for a particular purpose.

poorly

This alternative refers to something done badly or to a low standard.

weak

This alternative suggest lacking strength or effectiveness.

unsatisfactory

This alternative directly expresses a failure to meet expectations or requirements.

lacking

This alternative highlights the absence of something necessary or desirable.

imperfect

This alternative focuses on the presence of flaws or shortcomings.

FAQs

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

You can use "less than well" to describe something that is not performing or functioning as desired. For example, "The project was "less than well" executed, leading to several setbacks".

What phrases can I use instead of "less than well"?

Alternatives include "not very good", "subpar", or "inadequate", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

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

While grammatically correct, "less than well" might be perceived as somewhat informal or euphemistic. In formal writing, consider using more direct and precise language to describe the specific deficiency or issue.

What's the difference between "less than well" and "not well"?

"Not well" typically refers to someone's health or condition, whereas "less than well" describes a broader range of situations where something is deficient or not meeting expectations. For example, someone might say "I am not well" when they are sick, but they would say "the plan was "less than well" thought out" to critique a poorly conceived plan.