setting for less

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "setting for less" is not commonly used in English.
It is not standard English and would be difficult for others to understand. If you would like to use a phrase similar to this, you can use "setting a lower standard" or "working toward lower expectations". For example, "We are setting a lower standard for this project so that we can finish it on time."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Cabaret-style seating that curves around the stage can fit in 300 but, best of all, can be curtained off to create a more intimate setting for less busy or boutique nights.

The Guardian

A majority of GPs (60%) had spent at least 16 years as a GP and had been in their current location (practice setting) for less than ten years (60%).

BMC Family Practice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

ATMOSPHERE A room with lacquered black and white surfaces and waiters in black and white jackets is the sleek stage set for less impressive food.

The New York Times - Food

Yet recently the price of VR equipment has plummeted – you can buy a Google Cardboard set for less than £10 – and several of the world's largest tech companies are investing heavily in VR, including Facebook and Google.

The Guardian

Polaroid's decision to sell a 50in Ultra HD set for less than $1,000 could also be disruptive.

BBC

While a possession of 10 up to 50 cattle and a production of 10 up to 15 quintals was set for less poor/middle wealth status households.

Pastoralism

Given that drilling is set for less than 90 days from now, there's no time to lose. 1.

Huffington Post

The p value was set for less then 0.001 with a 95% confidence interval.

Plosone

Zenith Media, a British media buying company, says the overall size of the total European magazine ad market, which includes publications ranging from trade to fashion magazines, is set for less-than-stellar growth -- from $18.8 billion this year to $19.8 billion in 2002 and $20.7 billion by 2003.

The New York Times

SAN FRANCISCO -- When it comes to offering online maps to their users, some companies have been leaving Google Maps and setting out for less familiar territory.

The New York Times

When it comes to offering online maps to their users, some companies have been leaving Google Maps and setting out for less familiar territory, Quentin Hardy reports in Tuesday's New York Times.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, replace "setting for less" with more precise alternatives like "reducing expectations" or "adjusting standards" depending on the specific context.

Common error

Avoid using "setting for less" when you actually mean "aiming for something cheaper" or "opting for a lower standard". The phrase often lacks clarity and can confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "setting for less" functions as a verbal phrase aiming to convey a reduction in expectations or standards. However, as noted by Ludwig AI, it is not standard English and can be unclear.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "setting for less" appears in various contexts, it's not considered standard English and can lead to confusion. As Ludwig AI points out, its meaning generally revolves around reducing expectations or standards. For clearer and more effective communication, consider using alternatives like "lowering expectations" or "adjusting standards". The choice depends on the specific message you intend to convey. Opting for these alternatives enhances clarity and ensures adherence to grammatical norms.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lowering expectations

Directly addresses the reduction of anticipated outcomes or standards.

reducing standards

Focuses on the act of decreasing established benchmarks or criteria.

aiming for less

Focuses on the intentional act of reducing one's goals or expectations.

aiming lower

A more concise way of expressing the act of targeting less ambitious goals.

preparing for less

Emphasizes the act of getting ready for reduced circumstances or outcomes.

scaling back

Refers to reducing the scope or intensity of an activity or project.

adjusting for less

Highlights the adaptation process to accommodate fewer resources or lower standards.

cutting back

Emphasizes the reduction of resources or spending.

de-escalating

Suggests reducing the intensity or scale of a situation or conflict.

dumbing down

Implies simplifying or reducing the complexity of something, often negatively.

FAQs

What does "setting for less" mean?

The phrase "setting for less" is not standard English and its meaning can be unclear. It generally implies reducing expectations or standards.

How can I use "setting for less" in a sentence?

It's recommended to avoid using "setting for less" due to its lack of clarity. Instead, use more precise alternatives such as "lowering expectations" or "reducing standards" depending on the context.

What can I say instead of "setting for less"?

You can use alternatives like "aiming for less", "preparing for less", or "adjusting for less" depending on the context.

Is "setting for less" grammatically correct?

The phrase "setting for less" is not considered grammatically standard and can sound awkward. It's better to use more precise and common phrases.