more direct than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more direct than" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare the level of directness between two subjects or statements. Example: "Her approach to the issue was more direct than his, which often involved beating around the bush."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They are more direct than the Dons".

The Guardian - Sport

Some pitches are more direct than others.

The New York Times

He's more direct than Charlotte, at least.

The New Yorker

Her work's much more direct than that".

Independent

It was more direct than she usually appears.

The New York Times - Sports

"You can't get any more direct than that," he said.

The New York Times

But the connection is more direct than that.

The New Yorker

It's also faster and more direct than infrastructure spending.

Harvard Business Review

Spain have been noticeably more direct than in previous tournaments.

The Guardian - Sport

In this book, Alistair Knott argues that this interface is more direct than commonly assumed.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Franklin's management style is more direct than his father's, and he is less inclined to consensus.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "more direct than", ensure that the comparison is clear and the two subjects being compared are well-defined to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "more direct than" when comparing items that are not on the same scale or do not have a clear relationship in terms of directness; ensure a logical basis for comparison.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more direct than" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It is used to compare two entities, indicating that one possesses a higher degree of directness than the other. Ludwig AI confirms this, showing its prevalence in various comparative contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "more direct than" is a widely used comparative phrase that serves to highlight differences in directness, clarity, or approach. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently employed across diverse contexts, particularly in news, media, and academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure that the comparison is well-defined to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as ""more straightforward than"" or ""less roundabout than"" can provide nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more straightforward than

Emphasizes simplicity and lack of ambiguity in comparison.

less roundabout than

Highlights a reduced level of indirection or circumlocution.

more explicit than

Focuses on clarity and detail in the comparison.

more immediate than

Stresses the speed and lack of delay in the comparison.

more forthright than

Highlights honesty and candor in the comparison.

more blunt than

Implies a lack of subtlety or tact in the comparison.

more candid than

Emphasizes truthfulness and sincerity in the comparison.

more plainspoken than

Highlights clear and simple language in the comparison.

more undisguised than

Focuses on the lack of concealment or pretense in the comparison.

more head-on than

Highlights a direct and confrontational approach in the comparison.

FAQs

How can I use "more direct than" in a sentence?

Use "more direct than" to compare the level of directness between two actions, statements, or approaches. For example, "Her communication style is "more direct than" his, which often involves a lot of subtle hinting".

What's a good alternative to "more direct than"?

Alternatives to "more direct than" include "more straightforward than", "more explicit than", or "less roundabout than", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "more direct than"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that one thing is more straightforward and less ambiguous compared to another. It is best used when assessing methods, communication styles, or routes.

What is the difference between "more direct than" and "more straightforward than"?

"More direct than" implies a lack of intermediaries or detours, while "more straightforward than" emphasizes simplicity and clarity. Although similar, "more direct than" focuses on the path taken, whereas "more straightforward than" focuses on the ease of understanding.