When someone says « three times less, » they are likely trying to state that something is a fraction of its original amount. However, the phrase itself is somewhat confusing and can lead to misunderstandings.

How does « three times less » work

The phrase « three times less » is problematic because it can be read in two different ways. For example, if someone says « I have three times less money than you, » it could be interpreted as them having one-third of the money that the other person has or as them having three times less money (or one-third of the original amount).

Why is « three times less » problematic

The confusion lies in the use of the word « less. » The word « less » suggests subtraction, but when someone says « three times less, » what they really mean is that something is a fraction of its original amount. Therefore, it would be more accurate to say « one-third as much » or « one-third of the original amount » instead of « three times less. »

Examples

Let’s say someone has . If they say they have « three times less money » than someone else, it could be interpreted as them having (one-third of ) or having less than the other person (which would mean they only have -).

What should you say instead of « three times less »

To avoid confusion, it’s best to state fractions or amounts explicitly. Instead of saying « three times less, » say « one-third as much » or « one-third of the original amount. » This will help ensure that everyone is on the same page and avoids any misunderstandings.

Eight similar questions and answers

1. Is « three times less » the same as « three-quarters less »
No, « three times less » means something is a fraction of its original amount, whereas « three-quarters less » means something has decreased by 75%.

2. Can « three times less » ever be interpreted as an increase
No, « three times less » always means a decrease or a fraction of the original amount.

3. How do you convert « three times less » to a fraction or percentage
To convert « three times less » to a fraction, you would take the original amount and divide it by three. To convert to a percentage, you would take that fraction and multiply it by 100.

4. Is « three times less » grammatically correct
It’s technically correct, but it’s not the clearest way to express the intended meaning.

5. Can « three times less » ever mean « two-thirds less »
No, « three times less » specifically refers to a fraction of the original amount.

6. What is the difference between « three times less » and « one-third »
There is no difference in meaning between « three times less » and « one-third. » However, « one-third » is a clearer and more precise way to express the intended meaning.

7. Can « three times less » be used to describe an increase
No, « three times less » always means a decrease or a fraction of the original amount.

8. How can you avoid confusion when using « three times less »
To avoid confusion, it’s best to use more precise language. Instead of saying « three times less, » say « one-third as much » or « one-third of the original amount. »