more softly than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more softly than" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare the softness of sounds or actions, indicating that one is softer than another. Example: "She spoke more softly than her friend, creating a calming atmosphere in the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

She speaks a little more softly than her sister.

The New York Times

Talking to reporters afterward, McIlroy spoke more softly than usual.

The New York Times - Sports

Wright treads more softly than his friend Lo Duca.

The New York Times - Sports

Ms. Monheit is also singing more softly than before, lending her improvisations a lighter, springier momentum.

The New York Times - Arts

During his first three seasons, he had projected himself more softly than firmly to his players.

The New York Times - Sports

I confess I haven't heard of this Smith fellow, but it turns out her Irish consonants were merely rendering the name "Patti" more softly than usual.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

These images are hearty, satisfyingly textured, but more softly edged than most cut-paper illustrations.

The New York Times - Books

The former's air suspension tames such discomfort, and all of the latter vehicles are more softly sprung than the FX45.

Forbes

Although a fly's eyes contain multiple lenses, its 1-milligram brain assembles all the signals into a single coherent image that is remarkably detailed, although more softly focused than what the human eye can see.

Science Magazine

More softly berried beaujolais than bruising blockbuster, it's a genuine star of the new, more elegant California.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Ms. Hunt Lieberson sings each recurrence more softly and sadly than before, as the instruments play in soothing pianissimo.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing sounds, actions, or approaches, use "more softly than" to emphasize a gentler or less forceful quality. This phrase is particularly effective when highlighting a difference in intensity or impact.

Common error

Avoid using "more softly than" to describe abstract concepts that don't relate to physical softness or sound. For example, instead of saying "He understood the problem more softly than she did", consider using a phrase like "He understood the problem more subtly than she did".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more softly than" primarily functions as an adverbial comparative phrase. It modifies a verb or adjective to indicate a greater degree of softness in comparison to something else. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "more softly than" is a grammatically sound and frequently used comparative phrase that emphasizes a lesser degree of force, sound or impact. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for a variety of contexts, particularly in news, media and wiki sources. When using "more softly than", consider alternatives like ""more gently than"" or ""more quietly than"" for subtle differences in meaning. Avoid using it in abstract contexts where it doesn't logically apply. This phrase is a valuable tool for adding nuance and precision to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more gently than

Uses "gently" as a direct synonym for "softly", emphasizing a delicate approach.

more quietly than

Emphasizes a reduction in noise or sound level.

with a lighter touch than

Implies a less heavy or forceful handling.

less intensely than

Focuses on intensity rather than softness, implying a reduction in strength or force.

in a more subdued manner than

Highlights a quieter, more restrained way of acting or speaking.

with less force than

Highlights the reduction of physical power or impact in an action.

not as harshly as

Contrasts with harshness, suggesting a more compassionate or gentle approach.

more subtly than

Shifts the focus to a delicate or understated manner, rather than purely physical softness.

with reduced impact compared to

Focuses on the lessened effect or consequence of an action.

to a lesser degree than

Indicates a smaller extent or amount of something, which can relate to softness in certain contexts.

FAQs

What does "more softly than" mean?

The phrase "more softly than" indicates a comparative degree of gentleness or reduced intensity. It's used to describe something that is done or experienced with less force, sound, or impact compared to something else.

What can I say instead of "more softly than"?

You can use alternatives like "more gently than", "less intensely than", or "more quietly than" depending on the specific context and what aspect of softness you want to emphasize.

How do I use "more softly than" in a sentence?

Use "more softly than" to compare actions, sounds, or approaches, highlighting a difference in intensity or force. For example, "She spoke "more softly than" her sister, creating a calming atmosphere".

Which is correct, "more softly than" or "softer than"?

Both ""more softly than"" and "softer than" are grammatically correct. "Softer than" is a more direct comparison, while "more softly than" emphasizes the manner or quality of being soft. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.