more lightly

USAGE SUMMARY

"more lightly" is a grammatically correct expression that can be used in written English.
It is used to indicate more of a certain quality than before, such as "She danced more lightly than before."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Others get away more lightly.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Guys take everything much more lightly.

Independent

A principled desire to live more lightly on the planet?

The New York Times

Domestic partnerships it would seem could be more lightly dissolved.

The New Yorker

Candidates in tribal areas may get off more lightly.

The Economist

Mr. Gabriel took affairs of the heart more lightly.

The New York Times - Arts

If the country were already inside the door, it might get off more lightly.

The Economist

This will push financial transactions offshore into more lightly regulated areas.

The New York Times

He skates more lightly over why the rift in the Security Council became so bitter.

The Economist

Green Spa Network highlights spas that tread more lightly on the planet.

The New York Times - Travel

Drinkers sleep more lightly and frequently awaken unknowingly, which leaves them feeling unrefreshed the next day.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing actions, use "more lightly" to convey a reduced intensity or impact. For example, "tread more lightly" suggests a gentler approach.

Common error

Avoid using "more lightly" when you intend to convey a small degree of something. "Slightly" is more appropriate when referring to quantity or degree, while "lightly" emphasizes the manner in which something is done.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more lightly" functions as an adverbial modifier, specifying how an action is performed. It indicates a reduced intensity, weight, or force in the manner of execution. As Ludwig AI states, it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "more lightly" is a grammatically correct adverbial phrase frequently employed to describe actions performed with reduced intensity or force. As Ludwig AI confirms, its validity is widely supported. Predominantly found in News & Media, Wiki, and Science contexts, the phrase maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for diverse communication settings. When writing, remember to differentiate "more lightly" from "slightly" to accurately convey the intended meaning. Furthermore, according to Ludwig, remember to use alternative phrases when possible for a richer writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more casually

Implies a more relaxed or informal approach.

more gently

Implies a softer or kinder approach.

more mildly

Suggests a gentler or less severe manner.

more smoothly

Suggests a more seamless or effortless manner.

more superficially

Indicates a lack of depth or thoroughness.

more loosely

Suggests a less strict or precise manner.

more glibly

Indicates speaking in a smooth, easy way that may be insincere or shallow.

more modestly

Implies a more humble or restrained approach.

more readily

Implies greater ease or willingness.

more weakly

Refers to a lower intensity or strength.

FAQs

How can I use "more lightly" in a sentence?

You can use "more lightly" to describe actions performed with less force or intensity. For example, "Handle the fragile vase more lightly" or "He touched the keys more lightly to avoid waking anyone".

What are some alternatives to saying "more lightly"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "more casually", "more gently", or "more superficially". Each conveys a slightly different nuance.

Is it correct to say "more lightly"?

Yes, "more lightly" is a grammatically correct expression. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It's used to indicate doing something with less weight or intensity.

What's the difference between "more lightly" and "more easily"?

"More lightly" refers to the manner in which something is done, implying less force or weight. "More easily" refers to the degree of effort required. For example, "He lifted the box more lightly" versus "He solved the puzzle more easily".