less to maintain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less to maintain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that requires minimal upkeep or care, often in the context of products, systems, or environments. Example: "This new software update has fewer features, making it less to maintain for our IT team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

It will cost less to maintain a single centralised office than a number of smaller offices.

The Guardian - Opinion

It says it will cost less to maintain those subscribers over time.

The New York Times

He said the trucks also cost less to maintain, largely because of reduced wear on their conventional brakes.

The New York Times

They pay less to maintain trading positions and get first crack at large and therefore more profitable orders, most of which are still filled on the exchange floors.

The New York Times

"He manages none the less to maintain the optimistic view that all these troubles can be tamed, even if not fully overcome, through imagination.

The Guardian - Books

New York City is home to 95 such fields and playgrounds, which cost less to maintain and are better shock absorbers to bodies that hit them.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Students without diplomas earn much less money, are less likely to maintain stable families and are far more likely to end up in prison.

The New York Times

To attract renters, landlords had to lower rents dramatically, attracting less affluent tenants with less funds to maintain the homes.

Wikipedia

When browsing through our selection, consider the following: Low Voltage: These track heads are usually 12 or 24 volts, consume less energy and are less expensive to maintain.

WikiHow

But it's no less complicated to fly, no less complicated to maintain.

Forbes

In this swine model of traumatic hemorrhagic shock, resuscitation with RL as compared with NS required less fluid to maintain goal MAP and resulted in less EVLW formation.

Critical Care

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two options, clearly state what the alternative is "less to maintain" than. For example, "Hybrid cars are less to maintain than traditional gasoline cars."

Common error

Avoid using "less to maintain" without specifying what the subject is easier to maintain than. Always provide a clear comparison to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less to maintain" functions as an infinitive phrase, typically used as a comparative adjective to describe something requiring reduced upkeep or care. As Ludwig points out, it is commonly used in various contexts, indicating its versatility in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

16%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less to maintain" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for describing something that requires reduced upkeep. Ludwig confirms its correctness and broad applicability. It is commonly found in news articles and technical documents, with a neutral register suitable for various writing styles. When using this phrase, ensure you clearly specify what the subject is easier to maintain than to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "lower maintenance" or "reduced upkeep" can be used to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lower maintenance

Highlights the reduced level of maintenance required.

reduced upkeep

Emphasizes the decrease in the amount of upkeep needed.

easier to upkeep

Focuses on the ease of the maintenance rather than a reduction.

minimal maintenance required

Stresses the minimal amount of maintenance necessary.

simpler to care for

Focuses on the simplicity of providing care.

less demanding to keep up

Highlights the reduced demands of maintaining something.

requires less attention

Indicates a lower need for monitoring and care.

simplified upkeep

Implies a more straightforward process of maintenance.

less effort to preserve

Emphasizes the reduced effort needed to maintain in good condition.

easier to preserve

Focuses on the ease to keep something in good condition.

FAQs

How can I use "less to maintain" in a sentence?

You can use "less to maintain" to describe something that requires minimal upkeep or care, such as "This new engine design is "less to maintain", saving time and resources."

What are some alternatives to "less to maintain"?

Alternatives include phrases like "easier to upkeep", "lower maintenance", or "reduced upkeep", which all convey a similar meaning of requiring less effort or cost for maintenance.

Is it grammatically correct to say "less to maintain"?

Yes, "less to maintain" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English to describe something that requires minimal upkeep. Ludwig AI confirms this.

What's the difference between "less to maintain" and "easier to maintain"?

"Less to maintain" emphasizes a reduction in the amount of maintenance needed, while "easier to maintain" focuses on the simplicity of the maintenance process. The choice depends on whether you want to stress quantity or ease.