on the low side

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the low side" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a value that is lower than expected, lower than usual, or lower than average. For example, "The turnout was on the low side this year, with only about 200 people attending the protest."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Prices altogether remained on the low side.

The New York Times - Arts

valuation looks on the low side.

The New York Times

On the low side of moderate.

The Guardian - Travel

Nought out of 300 does seem on the low side.

The Guardian

The blood-sugar readings were on the low side.

The New York Times - Magazine

Property tax, too, is on the low side.

The New York Times

Most appear to be on the low side of that.

The Economist

It turns out it's middling, even on the low side.

The New York Times

"It was a little on the low side," he said.

The New York Times

Even that state's new limit, $500, is still on the low side).

The Guardian

Usually WellPoint negotiates prices that analysts say are on the low side.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on the low side" to indicate that a value, estimate, or quantity is less than what might be expected or considered typical. For example, "The attendance figures were on the low side due to the inclement weather."

Common error

Avoid using "on the low side" when you actually mean something is completely inadequate or deficient. The phrase implies it's less than desired, not entirely lacking. For a severe deficiency, opt for terms like "insufficient" or "inadequate".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the low side" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or adjective to indicate a value that is less than expected or average. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

21%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Science

7%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on the low side" is a common and acceptable way to describe a value or quantity that is less than expected. As Ludwig AI states, it is grammatically correct and widely used. Its usage spans diverse contexts, from news and media to academic research and business communications, though it maintains a neutral register. When writing, remember to consider the specific nuance you wish to convey and choose the most appropriate alternative if a more formal or precise term is needed. By understanding its meaning and usage patterns, you can effectively incorporate this phrase into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lower than expected

Focuses on the discrepancy between the actual value and what was anticipated.

below average

Highlights the comparison to a typical or average value.

on the conservative end

Implies a cautious or understated estimate.

somewhat understated

Suggests that the value is presented as less significant than it actually is.

a bit less

A simpler, more informal way to express a slightly lower quantity.

slightly underestimated

Indicates that the value is somewhat lower than a prior estimate.

toward the minimum

Emphasizes proximity to the lowest possible value.

at the bottom range

Indicates a position within the lowest part of a specified range.

relatively small

Highlights the diminutive size or extent of something.

a shade under

Implies the value is slightly less than a certain figure.

FAQs

How can I use "on the low side" in a sentence?

You can use "on the low side" to indicate that something is less than expected or average. For example, "The estimated cost was "lower than expected"" or "The sales figures were "a bit less" than last year".

What are some alternatives to "on the low side"?

Alternatives to "on the low side" include phrases like ""lower than expected"", "below average", or "on the conservative end", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "on the low side" in formal writing?

While "on the low side" is generally acceptable, consider using more formal alternatives like "relatively small" or "underestimated" in highly formal contexts to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "on the low side" and "inadequate"?

"On the low side" suggests something is less than desired or expected, while "inadequate" indicates that something is insufficient or completely lacking. For example, a budget that's "on the low side" might still cover basic needs, but an "inadequate" budget would not.