previously more

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "previously more" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to compare something that was greater in the past, but it lacks clarity and proper context. Example: "The results were previously more favorable than they are now."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

All three were previously more associated with the BBC.

The Guardian

As worrying: previously more secular swing states such as Turkey have been moving the wrong way.

The Guardian - Opinion

Previously, more than 40 states had accepted the applicants' written statements as proof of citizenship unless the claims seemed questionable.

The New York Times

Previously more than 1,500 employees took the buyouts, which included cash, health care and some flight benefits.

The New York Times

This year, women in particular claimed a form previously more associated with sanctimonious venting than with paradigm shifting and the results were sometimes extraordinary.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

That distinctiveness could disappear with the advent of game shows and reality programs that were previously more common on syndicated television.

The New York Times - Arts

The Obama administration has cautiously backpedaled from its previously more open support for Mr. Mubarak, America's staunchest ally in the Arab world.

The New York Times

Butterworth added: "It is now a criminal offence to sell psychoactive substances, which were previously more widely known as 'legal highs' so if you suspect a shop or business is continuing to supply them then please contact police.

The Guardian

As the sequel, "The Matrix Reloaded," arrived in theatres this week, it was obvious that the strange, violent science-fiction film, by the previously more or less unknown Wachowski brothers, had already inspired both a cult and a craze.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Previously - More Zombies and Molesting the TSA.

Vice

Yes? No? As I said previously -- more questions than answers.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing past and present states, clarify the specific attribute that was "previously more" significant. For instance, specify if it was 'previously more effective', 'previously more common', or 'previously more reliable'.

Common error

Ensure the comparison is clear by specifying what aspect was "previously more". Avoid vague statements that lack context, such as 'the situation was previously more', which leaves the reader wondering about the specific point of comparison.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "previously more" functions as an adverbial modifier indicating a state or condition that existed to a greater extent in the past. It is often used to compare past situations or attributes with present ones. However, as noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase lacks clarity and proper context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

44%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "previously more" is a phrase used to contrast past and present states, indicating a decline or change in a specific attribute. While quite frequent across diverse sources, including news, scientific publications, and wikis, Ludwig AI suggests that it can lack clarity. Alternatives like "formerly greater" or "previously higher" often provide more precise comparisons. When using "previously more", ensure the context is clear and the attribute being compared is well-defined to avoid ambiguity. While commonly used, the phrase would benefit from being replaced by alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

formerly greater

Emphasizes a state of being greater in the past.

previously higher

Highlights a higher value or level in the past.

used to be greater

Indicates something was larger or more significant before.

once was more significant

Focuses on past importance or significance.

earlier was more important

Highlights the importance of something at an earlier time.

had more before

Indicates a larger quantity or amount in the past.

was once of greater value

Emphasizes the past value or worth of something.

formerly held more importance

Focuses on the past importance or relevance.

used to have a greater impact

Highlights a past impact or influence.

was bigger in the past

Indicates a larger size or scale previously.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "previously more" to improve clarity?

For improved clarity, consider alternatives like "formerly greater", "previously higher", or "used to be greater", depending on the context. Each of these provides a more direct comparison between past and present states.

Is "previously more" grammatically correct?

While commonly used, the phrase "previously more" can be considered grammatically questionable as noted by Ludwig AI. It often lacks clarity and can be improved by using more precise alternatives.

What's a more formal way to say "previously more"?

In formal contexts, opt for alternatives like "formerly greater" or "previously higher". These phrases convey a sense of authority and precision, making your writing sound more professional.

How does the meaning of "previously more" differ from "formerly more"?

The phrases "previously more" and "formerly more" are quite similar, both indicating a greater degree in the past. However, "formerly more" might imply a more significant or official change compared to "previously more".