that is less true

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that is less true" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when comparing the truthfulness or accuracy of two statements or ideas, indicating that one is not as accurate as the other. Example: "While some may argue that the economy is improving, that is less true for those still struggling with unemployment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

In Washington (and in Oregon), that is less true; while the liberals are still liberal, the conservatives are reasonably conservative, especially outside of Seattle.

The New York Times

In Florida, that is less true, so a pollster that has a poor response rate or does not properly balance its demographics may get unreliable results.

The New York Times

There is also ample room for compromise on gun regulations in a way that is less true on other issues.

Huffington Post

Now, that is less true.

The New York Times

That is less true in Europe.

The New York Times

That is less true now.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

But some of the experts said the signal from Justice Scalia may have represented an accurate reading of the court on Saturday that was less true by Monday.

The New York Times

But China's need for natural resources may colour its investments, in ways that are less true for America, he says.

The Economist

With Contacts access, that's less true.

TechCrunch

"Ten years ago that was less true," he said.

The New York Times

But that's less true than meets the eye.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that is less true", follow it up with a specific explanation or counter-example to clarify the extent of the inaccuracy. This provides context and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "that is less true" when the statement is demonstrably false. Instead, reserve this phrase for situations where the statement has some merit or historical accuracy but is no longer entirely applicable. Overstating the degree of inaccuracy can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that is less true" functions as a qualifier or a hedge, diminishing the absolute truthfulness of a previous statement. It suggests a nuanced perspective where the initial statement holds some validity but is not entirely accurate or complete. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples where the phrase introduces a contrasting or limiting perspective.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that is less true" serves as a qualifier, indicating that a statement is not entirely accurate. Ludwig AI confirms this is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and media, to introduce nuance and encourage deeper consideration of a topic. While versatile, avoid using it when a statement is demonstrably false; instead, use it when the statement has some merit or historical basis. Consider alternative phrases like "that is not entirely accurate" for similar effect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that is not entirely accurate

Replaces "less true" with a more direct statement about accuracy, implying a partial inaccuracy.

that's not completely correct

States directly that the statement contains errors or inaccuracies.

that is somewhat misleading

Suggests the statement may be deceptive or give a wrong impression.

that's a half-truth

Suggests the statement is only partially true, implying some deception.

that is a simplification

Indicates the statement lacks nuance and omits complexities.

that is debatable

Indicates the statement is subject to disagreement and lacks universal acceptance.

that's not quite the case

Offers a gentle disagreement, implying the reality is different.

that's an overstatement

Implies the statement exaggerates the truth.

that is open to interpretation

Highlights that the statement is subjective and can be understood in multiple ways.

that's becoming less relevant

Shifts the focus to the diminishing importance or applicability of the statement over time.

FAQs

How can I use "that is less true" in a sentence?

Use "that is less true" to express that a statement isn't completely accurate, perhaps due to changing circumstances or specific exceptions. For instance, "While it was once believed that all swans were white, that is less true after the discovery of black swans in Australia".

What are some alternatives to "that is less true"?

You can use alternatives like "that is not entirely accurate", "that is somewhat misleading", or "that is a simplification" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "that is less true"?

It is appropriate when you want to acknowledge a statement's partial validity but also point out its limitations or inaccuracies. It's useful for adding nuance and encouraging deeper consideration of a topic.

What's the difference between "that is less true" and "that is false"?

"That is less true" implies a statement has some degree of validity or was once true but is no longer fully accurate, while "that is false" indicates a statement is entirely incorrect. The former is more nuanced and acknowledges a partial or outdated truth.