less tough

USAGE SUMMARY

"less tough" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not as difficult, harsh, or severe as something else. For example: "The exam this year seemed less tough than the exam last year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I don't mean girlie," she said, "but less tough.

The New York Times

None of his successors has dared to look less tough.

The Economist

But it is less tough than it seems.

The New York Times

However, maybe just a little less tough than other occupations".

The Guardian - Opinion

COL pigs were also judged significantly less tough, smoother and more fondant than EXP ones.

Meat Science

HVOF-sprayed cermet coatings are harder but less tough than EHC ones.

Surface and Coatings Technology

In other ways, Mr. Clarke has been less tough on the industry than other regulators.

The New York Times

The correspondent is less tough when talking about the Vietnamese-installed Government in Phnom Penh.

The New York Times - Arts

I don't think he realised that I needed less tough and more love.

The Guardian

TH: It's gotten a little less tough in terms of raising the money.

The Guardian - Film

Simon Amstell is happier than before, and less tough on himself.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "less tough" to compare the relative difficulty, severity, or resilience of two or more things. For example, "This year's regulations are less tough than last year's."

Common error

Avoid using "less tough" in absolute statements where no comparison is being made. Instead of saying "The situation is less tough", specify what it is less tough than.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less tough" primarily functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying nouns to indicate a reduced level of difficulty, resilience, or severity. As Ludwig indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "less tough" is a grammatically sound and frequently used comparative adjective phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It serves to indicate that something is not as difficult, severe, or resilient when compared to something else. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, its register is generally neutral, making it suitable for a wide range of communication. Remember to use it in comparative contexts, specifying what is "less tough" than what, and consider alternatives like "not as difficult" or "more lenient" depending on the nuances you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not as difficult

Emphasizes a decrease in the level of difficulty.

not as severe

Focuses on a reduction in harshness or intensity.

more lenient

Suggests a softer, more forgiving approach.

easier

Highlights a reduction in effort or complexity.

not as challenging

Indicates a lower level of challenge or obstacle.

more gentle

Implies a softer, kinder approach.

not as rigid

Focuses on a decrease in inflexibility or strictness.

more flexible

Indicates increased adaptability and willingness to compromise.

softer

Highlights a reduction in hardness or abrasiveness.

not as demanding

Suggests a reduction in the level of expectations or requirements.

FAQs

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

Use "less tough" to compare the relative difficulty, severity, or resilience of two or more things. For example, "The new training program is "less tough" than the old one".

What's a good alternative to "less tough"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "not as difficult", "more lenient", or "easier".

Is it correct to say "less tough" or should I use another phrase?

The phrase "less tough" is grammatically correct and commonly used. You can also use alternatives like "not as challenging" or "more gentle" depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

What's the difference between "less tough" and "easier"?

"Less tough" generally refers to something requiring less resilience or endurance, while "easier" implies less effort or complexity. The best choice depends on the specific context.