noticeably less than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "noticeably less than" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare quantities or qualities, indicating that one is significantly lower than another. Example: "The new model is noticeably less than the previous version in terms of battery life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

The dry region on the leeward side of a mountain range, where rainfall is noticeably less than on the windward side.

University of California, Berkeley

The slope of the TSV curve was noticeably less than that of the PMV curve, which indicates that the students are less sensitive to temperature changes than predicted.

Building and Environment

This is noticeably less than standard definition video (640 x 480 pixels at 30fps) — also known as VGA — but not unbearably different.

The Guardian - Tech

Mr. Aoun and Hezbollah's Parliament leaders are regularly ridiculed on both of his shows, but noticeably less than their rivals in the Western-allied political bloc.

The New York Times

While they have a similar ABV to Budweiser, the craft options have comparatively more hops and flavor than macrobrews — though noticeably less than other beers from the same brewery.

The Washington Post

The phone weighs noticeably less than other slideout smartphones, like the Droid2 from Verizon or the myTouch Slide from T-Mobile, even though it has a bigger screen than either.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

It's noticeably less comfy than our other recommendations too.

Independent

Journals seem noticeably less important than 10 years ago".

The New York Times - Science

The new Titanic museum has just opened and the high streets are noticeably less depressed than in many English cities.

The Guardian

Bush's speech was noticeably less belligerent than many of his remarks over the past nine days.

The New Yorker

And happily for Chinese-American relations, the mood in Congress is indeed noticeably less militant than in 1993.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "noticeably less than", ensure that the comparison is clear and the difference is significant enough to be easily perceived. Avoid using it for very minor or subjective differences.

Common error

Avoid using "noticeably less than" when the difference is subtle or only measurable with precise instruments. Using it in such cases can exaggerate the actual difference and mislead the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "noticeably less than" functions as a comparative expression, used to indicate that one thing is smaller or of a lower degree than another in a way that is easily observed. Ludwig confirms this is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

38%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "noticeably less than" is a useful comparative expression for indicating a clear and observable difference between two quantities or qualities. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, especially in news, scientific, and academic writing. When using it, ensure the difference is significant enough to warrant the descriptor. Related phrases such as "significantly smaller than" or "appreciably lower than" can provide alternative ways to express similar comparisons. Avoid exaggerating subtle differences when using "noticeably less than" to maintain accuracy and credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

noticeably diminished compared to

Similar meaning, but rephrased using 'diminished' instead of 'less'.

significantly lower compared to

Similar meaning, but replaces 'less' with 'lower'.

significantly smaller than

Emphasizes the considerable difference in size or quantity.

considerably smaller than

Highlights a significant size disparity.

appreciably reduced from

Replaces 'less' with 'reduced'.

appreciably lower than

Highlights the noticeable reduction in value or degree.

visibly smaller than

Focuses on the observable difference in size.

markedly reduced compared to

Stresses the evident decrease in comparison to something else.

distinctly fewer than

Focuses on the clear difference in number or instances.

substantially diminished from

Implies a considerable lessening from a previous state.

FAQs

How can I use "noticeably less than" in a sentence?

Use "noticeably less than" to compare two things where one is clearly smaller or lower in quantity or quality than the other. For example, "The cost of the generic brand is "noticeably less than" the name brand".

What are some alternatives to "noticeably less than"?

Alternatives include "significantly smaller than", "appreciably lower than", or "markedly reduced compared to". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "noticeably less than"?

It is appropriate when there is a clear and easily observable difference between two items being compared. Avoid using it when the difference is minimal or subjective.

Is there a difference between "noticeably less than" and "slightly less than"?

Yes. "Noticeably less than" indicates a significant difference, while "slightly less than" suggests a small, potentially insignificant difference. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the magnitude of the difference.