 |
| |||||||||
less1 S1 W1
1 not so much or to a smaller degree [≠ more]: 
Maybe he would worry less if he understood the situation.In recent years she has appeared in public less frequently.
Maybe he would worry less if he understood the situation.In recent years she has appeared in public less frequently. not ... any the less/no less (=not less) Your second point is no less important. It's a common problem but this doesn't make it any the less disturbing. I know he's done a dreadful thing, but I don't love him any the less.
Your second point is no less important.It's a common problem but this doesn't make it any the less disturbing.I know he's done a dreadful thing, but I don't love him any the less. be less a... than a... (=be not so much like one thing as another) 'Will you please come with me?' It was less a request than a command.
'Will you please come with me?' It was less a request than a command.2 not at all helpful, honest etc : He was less than enthusiastic about the idea.
less than helpful/honest/enthusiastic etc
He was less than enthusiastic about the idea.3 used to say that a quality, situation etc gradually decreases [≠ more and more]: As the years went by, he seemed to care less and less about his reputation. Smoking in the workplace is becoming less and less acceptable.
less and less
As the years went by, he seemed to care less and less about his reputation.Smoking in the workplace is becoming less and less acceptable.4 used to say that a greater thing is even less true, likely, or possible than the thing you have just mentioned : These people can scarcely afford to buy food, still less luxury goods like perfume. I didn't think Dave would ever read a book, much less write one himself.
much/still less
These people can scarcely afford to buy food, still less luxury goods like perfume.I didn't think Dave would ever read a book, much less write one himself.
