A2 1K

Less

🇬🇧 UK /["/les/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/les/"]/

Meaning of Less

used with uncountable nouns to mean ‘a smaller amount of’

In simple words: Not as much or not enough.

Less in a sentence

• I want less sugar in my tea.
• The project requires less time than I expected.
• She has less money than her friends.
• We should focus on less important tasks first.
• He feels less confident after that presentation.

How to use Less

Use 'less' with uncountable nouns (e.g., less water). It’s different from 'fewer,' which is for countable nouns (e.g., fewer apples).

Grammar pattern

less + uncountable noun

Memory hint

Less sounds like 'less is more'—imagine a small cup having less water than a big cup.

Related words

Collocations with Less

• less than
• less time
• less money

Synonyms for Less

• fewer
• lower
• diminished
• reduced

Opposites of Less

• more

Common mistakes with Less

• Using 'less' with countable nouns instead of 'fewer'.
• Confusing 'less' with 'least'.
• Saying 'less' when you mean 'not as many'.

Frequently asked questions about Less

What does Less mean?

Not as much or not enough.

What is the definition of Less?

used with uncountable nouns to mean ‘a smaller amount of’

How do you use Less in a sentence?

I want less sugar in my tea.

Can you give another example of Less?

The project requires less time than I expected.

What are synonyms for Less?

Common alternatives include fewer, lower, diminished, reduced.

What is the opposite of Less?

Opposite meanings include more.

What words go with Less?

It commonly pairs with less than, less time, less money.

What are common mistakes when using Less?

Using 'less' with countable nouns instead of 'fewer'. Confusing 'less' with 'least'. Saying 'less' when you mean 'not as many'.

How do you pronounce Less?

US: /["/les/"]/, UK: /["/les/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Less?

Use 'less' with uncountable nouns (e.g., less water). It’s different from 'fewer,' which is for countable nouns (e.g., fewer apples).

What CEFR level is Less?

"Less" is at A2 level on the CEFR scale.