Less

'Less' can be used as a determiner, pronoun, adverb, or preposition. In this lesson, we will discover all about this word.

Less is mainly known to be used as a modifier of an adjective in the English language, but it has other uses. Here they are:

Functions of 'Less'

1. 'Less' as a Determiner

Use

Less as a determiner is used to modify or describe an uncountable noun. It means 'not so much, smaller than in an amount.' Look:

I should spend less money.

She has less trouble than you.

Position in a Sentence

Less as a determiner comes before an uncountable noun to modify it. It can aact as an object, subject, subject complement, etc. Look:

I have done less work than you.

'Less work' is an object.

Less money must be given to her.

2. 'Less' as a Pronoun

Use

Less as a pronoun is used to replace a noun it refers to. Less means 'a smaller amount.' Look:

I used to have a large number of money, so we've learned to make do with less.

Less is sometimes better.

People have been punished for less (than that).

Position in a Sentence

Less as a pronoun is used to replace a noun it refers to. So, it can be a subject, an object, a subject complement, etc.

I used to have a large number of money, so we've learned to make do with less.

'Less' replaces 'money' and acts like an object.

Less was given to her.

'Less' is the subject.

3. 'Less' as an Adverb

Use

Less as an adverb is the comparative form of 'little'. It heads an adjective to modify it. It means 'to a smaller extent or degree.' Take a look:

That seems to be less perfect than that one.

I am less beautiful.

Position in a Sentence

Less as adverbs come before an adjective. It acts as a subject complement since it is used with linking verbs. Look:

That must be less handsome than that.

I seem less beautiful.

less and less

Less and less is used as an adverb and it means 'in a way that is gradually smaller, weaker, or less common.' Look:

The amount of meat is becoming less and less.

4. 'Less' as a Preposition

Use

Less as a preposition is used before nouns and means 'before subtracting (something); minus.' Look:

4,000 less tax

two euros less travel expenses

Position in a Sentence

Less as a preposition is used before nouns or noun phrases. Look:

4,000 less tax

two euros less travel expenses

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