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
Legislators from both parties have advocated big ongoing tax cuts this year, which also would necessitate saving less to reduce the state’s pension debt. Laura Tillman, Hartford Courant, 25 Mar. 2026 On its site outlining its data center plan, Project Spring, the company says the buildings would occupy less than 10% of the land and provide tax revenue that would shore up municipal budgets, all without straining the electrical grid or the water supply. Bracey Harris, NBC news, 25 Mar. 2026
Preposition
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
  • Wind chills in the northern Plains could reach around minus 20 degrees, while parts of Texas could feel below freezing wind chills, the weather service said.
    James Powel, USA Today, 15 Mar. 2026
  • The indie movie, which runs a tight 1 hour and 21 minutes, is a perfect example of life imitating art — minus the murder.
    Emily Longeretta, Variety, 14 Mar. 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 1 Apr. 2026.

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