less 1 of 2

Definition of lessnext

less

2 of 2

preposition

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of less
Adjective
The whole exam takes less than two minutes. Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, CNN Money, 25 June 2026 The film’s depictions of Jeff Bezos buddy Altman and Elon Musk are said to be less than flattering. Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 24 June 2026
Preposition
Vance has since taken care to appear supportive of the president, if less so about the specifics of the war effort. Jonathan Lemire, The Atlantic, 1 Apr. 2026 Get ready for a lot less facial hair on your television. Megan Friedman, Country Living, 17 Nov. 2016 See All Example Sentences for less
Recent Examples of Synonyms for less
Adjective
  • Even lesser-scale incidents like the Varsity Blues college admissions scandal and the Volkswagen emissions scandal erode trust in the institutions that help make our society possible and push it forward.
    Lindsey Witmer Collins, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2025
  • Toronto’s Fred VanVleet appears to be the top target, but Miami’s Kyle Lowry, Utah’s Mike Conley and, perhaps to a lesser extent, Charlotte’s Terry Rozier have been linked to the team at various points.
    Staff Writer Follow, Los Angeles Times, 3 Feb. 2023
Preposition
  • In general, the deduction can’t exceed 20% of taxable income minus net capital gain.
    Nancy Ashburn, Encyclopedia Britannica, 23 June 2026
  • Though Morocco and Brazil both have four points, Brazil has a better goal differential (goals scored for the team minus goals scored against).
    AJ Willingham, AJC.com, 23 June 2026
Adjective
  • And ultimately, the Supreme Court overruled those lower court rulings and did declare the embryos as children qualifying under the wrongful death statute.
    Dana Taylor, USA TODAY, 1 Mar. 2024
  • Lower gas demand amid increasing supply has led to lower pump prices.
    Frank Witsil, Detroit Free Press, 19 June 2023
Preposition
  • At Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort, face masks are required in public areas, except when dining or swimming, capacity of public areas will be limited, and housekeeping and public area attendants will increase their cleaning procedures.
    Elizabeth Rhodes, Travel + Leisure, 4 June 2020
  • The city advised all residents to stay inside except those going to and from work and anyone seeking or giving emergency care, according to Mayor Eric Garcetti's official Twitter account.
    NBC News, NBC News, 1 June 2020

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Cite this Entry

“Less.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/less. Accessed 28 Jun. 2026.

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