What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
less
Example
I have less money than I did last month. [less: determiner]
Example
The noise outside is less loud now that the window is closed. [less: adjective]
Example
She is less experienced than her colleague. [less: comparative adverb]
reduced
Example
The store has reduced the prices of their products for the sale. [reduced: verb]
Example
The reduced portion size of the meal was still satisfying. [reduced: adjective]
Example
The company has had to make reduced profits due to the pandemic. [reduced: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Less is more commonly used than reduced in everyday language, as it is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts. Reduced is less common but is often used in more formal or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between less and reduced?
Reduced is more formal than less, which is commonly used in everyday language. However, both words can be used in formal or informal contexts depending on the situation and tone of the communication.