less vigorous than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less vigorous than" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare the intensity or strength of two subjects, indicating that one is not as strong or forceful as the other. Example: "The exercise routine I followed last week was less vigorous than the one I am currently doing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

That makes it more likely that the recovery will be less vigorous than in the past.

The New York Times

De Jouvenel agreed: "Any sentiment less vigorous than hatred indicates a lack of virility".

Encyclopedia Britannica

But Delius' expressive range was more limited and his invention less vigorous than Elgar's.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Meanwhile, the rebound in consumer spending in the first quarter was slightly less vigorous than previously reported.

The New York Times

The progeny of such crosses were smaller and less vigorous than were those of plants allowed to mate with another.

The Guardian

However under Kim Jong-un, these sessions are less regular and less vigorous than in the Kim Il-sung age.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Adelaide Clemens, as the young suffragette Valentine Wannop, may appear a bit less vigorous and sporty than we know her from the novels, but her open-faced radiance and easy, modern humor make her not just an appealing character but also an antidote to the stodgy folk around her.

The New Yorker

The continuous nitrogen deficiency regime produced flatter, more asymmetric and less vigorous rose bushes than the no nitrogen deficiency regime.

Scientia Horticulturae

The stem cells used, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), are thought to elicit a less vigorous immune reaction than blood stem cells, and MSCs can develop into bone, along with other connective tissues.

Science Magazine

The apricot trees in these oases are generally less vigorous and younger than those from other locations, indicating that propagation was more active in the oases of southern Morocco than those in the north, probably due to more favourable climatic conditions.

BMC Plant Biology

Indeed, Albert Blakeslee observed already in the early 1920s that plants with three copies of a single chromosome are generally less vigorous and fertile than polyploid lines in which all chromosomes have been triplicated, leading to the formulation of genetic (or gene) balance (Blakeslee et al. 1920; Blakeslee 1921).

G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing entities, ensure the context makes clear what aspect of vigor is being compared (e.g., physical strength, economic activity, etc.). Be specific to enhance clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "less vigorous than" without clearly defining the scope. For instance, stating "the recovery was less vigorous than expected" is vague unless 'vigorous' is tied to specific economic indicators.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less vigorous than" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It's used to indicate that one entity possesses a lower degree of vigor compared to another. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating this comparative function.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less vigorous than" is a grammatically correct and frequently used comparative phrase that serves to contrast entities based on their relative levels of strength, energy, or intensity. Ludwig confirms its validity and common usage across various domains, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While its register is generally neutral, precise usage involves clearly defining the scope of 'vigor' to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "not as energetic as" or "less intense than" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not as energetic as

Replaces "vigorous" with "energetic" maintaining the comparison of energy levels.

less intense than

Focuses on the degree of intensity rather than overall vigor.

not as robust as

Substitutes "vigorous" with "robust", focusing on strength and health.

not as forceful as

Replaces "vigorous" with "forceful", emphasizing the intensity of action.

weaker than

Simplifies the comparison to a basic difference in strength.

not quite as lively as

Uses "lively" to convey a comparison in terms of activity and animation.

more subdued than

Highlights a reduction in intensity or activity relative to another entity.

not so dynamic as

Employs "dynamic" to suggest a difference in active and changing qualities.

not as spirited as

Substitutes "vigorous" with "spirited" suggesting a comparative lack of enthusiasm or energy.

paler than

Emphasizes a reduction in vitality or intensity when compared to a reference point.

FAQs

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

Use "less vigorous than" to compare the intensity or strength of two subjects, indicating one is not as forceful or strong as the other. For example, "The new marketing campaign proved "less vigorous than" the previous one".

What can I say instead of "less vigorous than"?

Alternatives include "not as energetic as", "weaker than", or "less intense than", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "less vigorous than"?

Yes, it's a grammatically correct and commonly used comparative phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its validity through numerous examples.

What’s the difference between "less vigorous than" and "more subdued than"?

"Less vigorous than" generally implies a lower level of energy or force, while "more subdued than" suggests a reduction in intensity or activity. The choice depends on whether you're emphasizing energy or activity.