lighter than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'lighter than' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a comparison between two objects or qualities, when one is less heavy than the other. For example, "This suitcase is much lighter than my last one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It's lighter than we think.

The New York Times

He's lighter than air.

The New York Times

It felt to her lighter than cobweb.

The New Yorker

It was lighter than that".

The Guardian

"It's lighter than you think".

The New Yorker

He's quite a bit lighter than me.

Independent

It's lighter than the 200-page book.

The New York Times - Travel

It's much lighter than, say, rice pudding.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

started producing his storied lighter-than-air crafts at 61.

Forbes

Lighter-Than-Air Lights [Yanko Design].

TechCrunch

Discussion of lighter-than-air aircraft.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing weights, ensure that the units of measurement are consistent (e.g., both in kilograms or pounds) for clarity. For example: This package is "lighter than" the other one, but both are in kilograms.

Common error

Avoid comparing weights with different units without conversion. Saying 'This weighs 5 pounds, which is "lighter than" that 10 kilograms' is misleading without conversion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lighter than" functions primarily as a comparative adjective phrase. It is used to indicate that one noun is less heavy or intense than another, directly comparing their properties. Ludwig's examples confirm this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lighter than" is a common and grammatically correct comparative phrase used to indicate a difference in weight or intensity between two subjects. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's frequently found in news, scientific, and wiki contexts and maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse audiences. To use it effectively, ensure consistent units when comparing weights and avoid comparing dissimilar aspects. When used figuratively, consider alternative phrases like "less burdensome than" for abstract concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less heavy than

Emphasizes the reduced weight, focusing directly on the physical attribute.

not as weighty as

A more formal way to express a comparison in terms of weight.

of a lower weight than

A technical or precise way to describe a difference in weight.

more buoyant than

Suggests a comparison in terms of the ability to float, implying less density.

easier to lift than

Focuses on the practical experience of lifting something, rather than the weight itself.

not as intense as

Extends the comparison to non-physical attributes like intensity or impact.

more ethereal than

Implies a delicate or airy quality, suggesting lightness in a metaphorical sense.

less burdensome than

Shifts the focus to the feeling of burden or responsibility, rather than physical weight.

paler compared to

Compares shades, implying less intensity of color or light.

gentler than

Used to describe a softer or milder impact, deviating from strict physical weight.

FAQs

How can I use "lighter than" in a sentence?

Use "lighter than" to compare the weight or intensity of two things, like: "This new laptop is "lighter than" my old one" or "Her touch was "lighter than" a feather".

What's a synonym for "lighter than"?

Alternatives include "less heavy than", "not as weighty as", or "of a lower weight than", depending on the context.

Is it always about physical weight when using "lighter than"?

No, "lighter than" can also describe something less intense, serious, or burdensome. For instance, "The atmosphere at the party was "lighter than" I expected".

How do I avoid misusing "lighter than"?

Ensure you're comparing similar aspects. Don't say 'This feather is "lighter than" my worries'; instead, compare physical weights or use a different phrase like "less burdensome than" for abstract concepts.