Guide 142 / 200 4 alternatives 2-minute read
Better ways to say “More or less”
Three words for a hedge.
i · Why avoid itTwo lines, no filler
"More or less" lets writers off the hook — a small apology for an imprecise claim. Prefer "roughly," "approximately," or a real number. In rigorous writing, say which direction the error goes.
ii · Before & afterDrop-in demo
Before
The change is more or less done.
After
The change is 90% done; only the admin flow remains.
iii · The alternatives4 ways out
- 01Roughly neutral
rough estimate
Roughly done.
- 02Approximately neutral
slightly formal
Approximately complete.
- 03Largely neutral
mostly but not fully
Largely complete.
- 04Nearly neutral
close to full
Nearly done.
iv · Brew tipKeep this one
"More or less" is two directions at once. Pick one.