not as intense as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not as intense as" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to compare the intensity of two things, indicating that one is less intense than the other. Example: "The storm last night was not as intense as the one we experienced last month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

The feeling may not be not as intense as it was when you first met, but some version of it should still be there.

WikiHow

While OHCs were most prominently labeled in the α9−/− cochlea, Deiters' cells were also more intensely immunoreactive than wild type, although not as intense as the OHCs.

Plosone

Statistical-dynamical downscaling models are able to simulate the observed intensity distribution of North Atlantic TCs40, whereas explicitly simulated storms are not as intense as those observed (Supplementary Note 6).

Nature

It's not as intense as it used to be.

The New York Times

We could see a few thunderstorms as well, but not as intense as yesterday's storms.

The Washington Post

"The locker room's not as intense as it was last year," Harris said.

The New York Times - Sports

It's not as mild as those made with rice but not as intense as soybean misos.

The New York Times

The foliage color is not as intense as at higher altitudes, but the views from the water's edge are spectacular.

The New York Times - Travel

Because many states limit the number of nursing-home beds, the competition is not as intense as it might be otherwise.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

In Tom Price, while people are still enjoying good times, business is not as intense as during the height of the boom.

The New York Times

The espresso is rich and aromatic, and though the flavor is not as intense as it would be with fresh ground beans, it is nonetheless satisfying.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not as intense as", ensure that the comparison is clear and that both elements being compared are explicitly stated or easily understood from the context. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens your writing.

Common error

A common error is failing to establish a clear point of reference for the comparison. Always ensure the 'as' component of the phrase is followed by a specific element or concept to complete the comparative statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not as intense as" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It serves to qualify a noun by indicating that it possesses a lower degree of intensity relative to another noun or concept. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples that confirm the function of comparison and qualification.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

34%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not as intense as" is a versatile comparative adjective phrase used to express that something is less intense than something else. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. When using this phrase, clarity in comparison is key to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "less intense than" or "not as strong as" can be used for stylistic variation. Remember that while "not so intense as" is grammatically acceptable, "not as intense as" is more common in modern usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less intense than

Direct synonym using different wording and structure, maintaining the comparison of intensity.

not quite as strong as

Replaces "intense" with "strong" to convey a similar meaning of force or power.

weaker by comparison to

Directly states the reduced strength relative to something else.

milder than

Indicates a weaker or more gentle form, especially applicable to experiences or sensations.

subdued compared to

Highlights a reduction in vigor or prominence relative to something else.

paler in comparison to

Focuses on the reduced intensity, using "paler" as a metaphor for less vividness.

not as severe as

Emphasizes a lessened degree of seriousness or gravity.

a shadow of

A metaphorical way to describe something much weaker or reduced compared to its original state.

bears no comparison with

Indicates a significant difference in intensity, where one almost lacks the intense attributes of the other.

doesn't hold a candle to

An idiomatic expression suggesting the intensity is significantly lower.

FAQs

How can I use "not as intense as" in a sentence?

Use "not as intense as" to compare the degree of something with another thing. For example, "The pain was "not as intense as" I expected" or "The competition was "not as intense as" last year".

What are some alternatives to "not as intense as"?

Alternatives include "less intense than", "not as strong as", or "milder than", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Which is correct: "not as intense as" or "not so intense as"?

"Not as intense as" is generally preferred and more common in modern English. "Not so intense as" is also grammatically correct, but sounds more formal or archaic.

What is the difference between "not as intense as" and "less intense than"?

While both phrases convey a similar meaning, "not as intense as" provides a more direct comparison, while "less intense than" is a more straightforward comparative statement. The choice often depends on stylistic preference and sentence structure.