Less

Definition

Less is a comparative term used to indicate a smaller amount or degree of something in relation to another. It plays an essential role in making distinctions between quantities and is often used in contexts of comparison, especially when discussing uncountable nouns or measurements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Less' should be used with uncountable nouns, such as 'less water' or 'less time', while 'fewer' is appropriate for countable nouns, like 'fewer apples'.
2. In mathematical contexts, 'less' often represents subtraction or a decrease in value.
3. 'Less than' is commonly used in comparisons, such as 'This task requires less effort than the previous one.'
4. The phrase 'no less than' is used to emphasize a significant amount, indicating that something is not insignificant.
5. 'Less' can also appear in idiomatic expressions, such as 'less is more', suggesting that simplicity can lead to greater effectiveness.

Review Questions

• How does the usage of 'less' differ from 'fewer', and in what scenarios should each be applied?
  • 'Less' is used with uncountable nouns, while 'fewer' applies to countable items. For instance, you would say 'less sugar' but 'fewer cookies'. This distinction is crucial for maintaining grammatical accuracy in writing and speech. Understanding this difference helps clarify communication about quantities and ensures correct usage based on the nature of the noun.
• Discuss the implications of using 'less than' in comparative statements and how it affects clarity in communication.
  • Using 'less than' in comparative statements helps convey clear differences in degree or amount. For example, saying 'I have less than five dollars' communicates a specific limit on resources. This phrasing aids listeners or readers in understanding the context and significance of the comparison, making it easier to grasp relative amounts and prioritize information effectively.
• Evaluate the cultural significance of the phrase 'less is more' in contemporary society and its impact on various fields.
  • The phrase 'less is more' has gained cultural significance as it emphasizes simplicity and minimalism across various fields such as design, lifestyle, and even technology. In a world overwhelmed by excess, this concept encourages individuals and organizations to focus on quality over quantity. By advocating for streamlined approaches, it fosters creativity and innovation while promoting sustainability, ultimately shaping modern perspectives on consumption and aesthetics.

Related terms

fewer:

Fewer is used to refer to a smaller number of countable items, contrasting with 'less', which applies to uncountable quantities.

least: Least is the superlative form of less, indicating the smallest degree or amount among three or more items.

amount: Amount refers to the quantity of something, typically used with uncountable nouns and is closely related to the usage of less.