less time

USAGE SUMMARY

"less time" is correct and can be used in written English.
It usually indicates a shorter amount of time needed to do something or a quicker way to do something. For example, "By using this method, you can achieve the desired result in less time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Less time and heat".

The New Yorker

Therapy experts reckon on even less time.

The Economist

You take a lot less time off".

The New York Times - Sports

I have much less time for solitude.

The New York Times

It gave me less time to dwell.

The New Yorker

"Hopefully, it'll take less time here.

The New York Times

That left less time for development.

The Economist

He spends less time hiding behind reverb.

The New Yorker

Mosquitoes spend less time whining.

The Guardian - Sport

The less time the better.

The Guardian - Sport

Less time in traffic, maybe.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for conciseness, use "less time" to emphasize efficiency and reduced duration in tasks or activities. This helps convey the benefit of speed and improved productivity.

Common error

Avoid using "fewer time" instead of "less time". "Less" is used for uncountable nouns like time, while "fewer" is for countable nouns. For example, say "I have less time to complete this project" not "I have fewer time."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less time" functions primarily as an adverbial modifier or a noun phrase indicating a smaller quantity of time. Ludwig provides examples where it's used to express efficiency, duration reduction, or scarcity of time, like "spend less time shopping" or "take less time to cook".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "less time" is a common and grammatically sound way to indicate a shorter duration or reduced time requirement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s widely accepted in written English. Its neutral register allows for use in various contexts, from News & Media to scientific writing, emphasizing efficiency and productivity. When using "less time", remember it applies to uncountable nouns, unlike "fewer". Alternatives such as "reduced duration" can add formality. Mastering the usage ensures clear and effective communication regarding time management.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reduced duration

Focuses on the shortened period itself, rather than the activity.

shorter timeframe

Highlights that a shorter block of time is needed.

decreased time

Emphasizes the act of diminishing the amount of time.

quicker pace

Shifts the focus to the speed at which something occurs.

expedited schedule

Suggests a faster timetable or arrangement.

accelerated timeline

Refers to a sped-up sequence of events.

compressed period

Indicates a squeezed or condensed duration.

abbreviated interval

Uses more formal language to describe a shortened space between events.

streamlined process

Highlights efficiency in making something faster.

time-saving measure

Focuses on an action taken to reduce time expenditure.

FAQs

How can I use "less time" in a sentence?

You can use "less time" to describe a situation where something takes a shorter duration than before or expected. For example, "This new method allows us to complete the task in "less time"."

What's a more formal way to say "less time"?

In formal contexts, you might use phrases like "reduced duration" or "abbreviated timeframe" instead of "less time". These options sound more professional in academic or business settings.

Is it grammatically correct to say "fewer time" instead of "less time"?

No, "fewer time" is not grammatically correct. "Less" is used for uncountable nouns (like time), while "fewer" is used for countable nouns. Always use "less time".

What are some common collocations with "less time"?

Common collocations include "spend "less time"", "take "less time"", and "require "less time"". These phrases are frequently used to indicate efficiency and reduced workload.