much more softly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "much more softly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action that is done with a greater degree of softness or gentleness compared to something else. Example: "She spoke much more softly than her usual tone, trying not to disturb the sleeping baby."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

And, at the same time, groups like Tangerine Dream, Popol Vuh, Cluster, and Neu! were playing songs that seeped much more softly into the atmosphere.

The New Yorker

I just need you to realize that this shit is killing you, too, however much more softly, you stupid motherfucker, you know?" The whiteness of MTV reality show casts creates a barrier that sells the notion that for white people such bliss is achievable if they simply choose to disengage from the realities of inequality and just focus on self-gratification.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"This war," he said softly, "was much more horrible than the first one".

The New York Times

Throwing this plane softly is much more effective than throwing it forcefully.

WikiHow

Leaping madly, landing softly and shaking much more than his tambourine, Daniel Ulbricht attempted no such balance.

The New York Times - Arts

In its previous memo released in April, the panel used much of the same language but stated more softly that the decline in activity that began last year "may be coming to an end".

The New York Times

One of the prose poems he has written since his return to Moscow is called "Growing Old": How much easier it is then, how much more receptive we are to death, when advancing years guide us softly to our end.

The New Yorker

The vocals of Brittany Howard: The Alabama Shakes singer spoke softly to the crowd at the South by Southwest festival in Austin, Texas, in March: "I don't know much more than you," she said.

Los Angeles Times

She spoke more softly now.

The New Yorker

Lamby is growling, but more softly now.

The New Yorker

"Just so tedious," she repeated, more softly.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "much more softly" to emphasize a clear contrast in gentleness or subtlety compared to a previous action or state. This adds nuance and clarity to your description.

Common error

Avoid using "much more softly" excessively, as it can become redundant. Vary your language with alternatives like "far more gently" or "significantly softer" to maintain a natural and engaging tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "much more softly" functions as an adverbial modifier, enhancing the verb it modifies by indicating a greater degree of gentleness or reduced intensity. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in describing actions performed with a lighter touch or quieter tone.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "much more softly" is a grammatically sound adverbial phrase used to emphasize a significant reduction in force or intensity. While relatively rare, according to Ludwig, it effectively conveys nuanced meanings across various contexts, particularly in news and media, and general writing. When using this phrase, remember to emphasize a clear contrast and avoid overuse. Consider alternatives like "far more gently" for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

far more gently

Emphasizes the gentleness of an action to a greater extent.

considerably more quietly

Focuses on the reduced volume of sound significantly.

noticeably more subdued

Highlights a distinct decrease in intensity or force.

appreciably more delicately

Stresses the enhanced finesse or care in handling something.

significantly less harshly

Indicates a marked reduction in severity or roughness.

substantially more lightly

Suggests a considerable decrease in pressure or weight.

considerably less intensely

Emphasizes a significant reduction in the strength or passion of an action or feeling.

markedly more subtly

Highlights a noticeable increase in the subtlety or refinement of an action.

distinctly more muted

Focuses on the clear reduction in loudness or vibrancy.

measurably more tenderly

Indicates an increased degree of care or affection that can be perceived.

FAQs

How can I use "much more softly" in a sentence?

You can use "much more softly" to describe an action performed with significantly less force or intensity. For example, "She spoke "much more softly" than usual, trying not to wake the baby."

What are some alternatives to "much more softly"?

Alternatives include "far more gently", "considerably more quietly", or "noticeably more subdued", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "much more softly"?

While grammatically correct, "much more softly" is most effective when emphasizing a distinct contrast. In some cases, simpler alternatives like "more gently" or "more quietly" may be more concise and suitable.

What's the difference between "more softly" and "much more softly"?

"More softly" indicates a simple comparison, while ""much more softly"" emphasizes a greater degree of difference. The latter is used to highlight a significant change in the softness or gentleness of an action.