PhrasesHub

Less is more

    Definitions

      • simplicity is better
        Express that a minimalist approach or a smaller quantity can be more effective or desirable than a larger one

      • quality over quantity
        Imply that focusing on the essential and eliminating unnecessary elements can lead to a better result

    Examples of Less is more

    • In graphic design, less can sometimes be more when it comes to the use of colors and layout. A simple, clean design with minimal elements can be just as impactful, if not more so, than a busy, cluttered one.

      This idiom can be applied to graphic design to convey that a design doesn't always need to be elaborate or have a lot of elements to be effective. Sometimes, a minimalistic approach with fewer colors and simpler layouts can make a design more visually appealing and communicate the message more clearly.

    • In cooking, less salt can often result in a more delicate flavor profile. A dish that's well-seasoned but not overly salty will allow the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through.

      The use of less salt in cooking can enhance the flavors of the dish by allowing the other flavors to come through more clearly. Overuse of salt can sometimes mask the flavors of the other ingredients and make the dish less enjoyable to eat.

    • In writing, less can be more when it comes to excessively describing a scene or event. By trimming down the excessive descriptive parts, the author can create a more concise narrative that leaves more room for the reader's imagination to fill in the details.

      This idiom can be used in writing to convey that sometimes less is needed to tell a story effectively. Excessive descriptive parts can sometimes bog down the narrative and make it less engaging for the reader. By trimming down the excess, the author can create a more concise narrative that allows the reader to use their imagination to fill in the details and make the story more engaging.

    • In advertising, less can sometimes be more when it comes to the use of slogans or taglines. A simple, catchy phrase is more memorable and effective than a longer, more complex one.

      This idiom can be applied to advertising to convey that a simple, catchy slogan or tagline can be more effective than a lengthier, more complex one. The shorter and simpler the slogan, the easier it is for the audience to remember and associate with the brand or product being advertised.

    • Simplicity is the key to creating a timeless design. Less is more when it comes to choosing the right elements to include in a space.

      This idiom is used to emphasize the idea that sometimes, less is actually more effective or desirable than more. In the context of design, it means that by choosing only the most important and essential elements, a space can have a timeless and minimalist appeal that is more impactful than a cluttered or busy design.

    • In order to achieve a healthy work-life balance, less is more in terms of the number of hours you put into work each week. It's better to prioritize and focus on completing necessary tasks during regular working hours, rather than sacrificing your personal life by working overtime.

      This usage of the idiom highlights the idea that sometimes, it's better to limit or reduce something in order to achieve a better outcome. In this case, it means that by working fewer hours, you can actually be more productive and efficient in the time you do have, rather than spreading yourself too thin by working long hours that lead to burnout and stress.

    • When it comes to gaining quality insights from your data, less is more in terms of choosing which metrics to analyze. Focus on the essential data points that provide the clearest and most meaningful insights, rather than getting bogged down in too much information.

      Here, the idiom is being used to suggest that by narrowing your focus and ignoring less relevant data, you can better understand and draw meaning from the information that really matters. This can lead to more actionable and insightful insights that are easier to implement and follow up on.

    • In order to craft a compelling and impactful message, less is more in terms of the number of words or ideas you include. Sometimes, less is more powerful and memorable than more.

      This usage of the idiom highlights the idea that sometimes, less can be more in terms of the emotional impact and memorability of a message. By focusing on the most important and impactful words or ideas, you can create a more memorable and impactful message that is easier to remember and recall. This is particularly true in cases where simplicity and clarity are crucial, such as advertising or brand messaging.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "less is more" is often used to convey the idea that simplicity and minimalism can be more effective or desirable than complexity or excess. It can also suggest that prioritizing quality over quantity can lead to better outcomes. Whether it's about design, lifestyle, or decision-making, this idiom encourages people to consider the benefits of keeping things simple and focused.

    Origin of "Less is more"

    The phrase "less is more" is commonly attributed to the German-American architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, who used it to describe his minimalist design principles. The idea behind this phrase is that by reducing the number of elements in a design or a concept, the overall impact can be heightened. This concept has been embraced in various fields, from architecture and design to literature and philosophy, emphasizing the value of simplicity and restraint. The phrase has since become a popular idiom used to advocate for minimalism and quality over quantity in various contexts.