less - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
less Word Meanings
- a smaller amount or degree
- not as much
- to a lesser extent
less Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
less Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/lɛs/
US
/lɛs/
less Word Etymology
Root: 'less' derives from Old English 'leas', meaning 'not' or 'without'. Historical Origin: Old English → Middle English → Modern English. Memory Image: Imagine a less crowded park where you can relax more freely, emphasizing the absence of noise and distraction.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
First, I place a glass on the counter and move the line of liquid a touch to the side. I push a little less water in, watching the space between the marks shrink. I hold my breath a moment, then adjust my grip and keep the pour steady, feeling the effort to stay lighter. This small turn of how much I give or take becomes a hint I can use when I need to keep things simpler later.
Real Context
Less is a versatile word used to compare quantities, degrees, or intensity. It can modify nouns in expressions like less time or less money, and modify adjectives or adverbs with less expensive or less slowly. When talking about countable items, English typically uses fewer (fewer apples) instead of less (less apples is incorrect). In negations, less often pairs with than to draw a comparison (less than usual). Less can also function as a determiner meaning a smaller amount of before uncountable nouns. Common mistakes include using less with countable nouns, or using less to mean slightly or smaller in all contexts; remember fewer for countables and less for uncountables.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: less for uncountable nouns; fewer for countables. Use less than to show a smaller amount; not less of something as a general mood. Be careful with adjectives and adverbs: less expensive, less slowly. Compare with not as much as in some contexts. Avoid double negatives like not less; aim for a single clear comparison.
Common Misconceptions
- Less is for noncount nouns only; using it with count nouns is incorrect.
- Fewer should be used with countable nouns, not less.
- Less can mean a small degree, not just a small amount.
- Don't say 'less apples' in standard English—use 'fewer apples'.
- Less is not a synonym for 'not as good'; use not as good or less good only if appropriate.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, the key difference is between less and fewer: use less with uncountable nouns (water, time) and fewer with countable nouns (cars, apples). Learners often overextend less to countable nouns or think not as much always means less. Remember that not as much is an alternative phrasing in some contexts.
Learning Tips
- Make a table: countables use fewer; uncountables use less.
- Practice with pairs: less/fewer and not as much.
- Use 'less than' for comparisons to show a smaller amount.
- Read and note common collocations (less expensive, less time).
- Avoid forcing less where not appropriate; check countability.
- Compare with 'not as much' for emphasis in some contexts.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'less'?
A.A common amount
B.A large amount
C.A small amount
D.A happy amount
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'less' correctly?
A.He drank more water during the race.
B.She ate less ice cream today.
C.They saw less birds in the park.
D.We need to buy less pencils for school.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'less'?
A.More
B.Excess
C.Abundant
D.Scarce
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'less'?
A.Same
B.More
C.Many
D.Alot
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where 'less' could be used?
A.He had to finish his work with a limited time.
B.She went for a hike in the mountains.
C.The party went on into the night.
D.They painted the walls bright colors.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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