Have you noticed how a simple room or clean design can feel more relaxing than something overloaded with details? That’s the magic behind the idiom “less is more.” In this post, we’ll unpack its meaning, explore its origin, and look at examples that show why the phrase remains powerful today.
Meaning of “Less Is More”
The idiom “less is more” suggests that simplicity often produces a stronger, clearer, or more impressive result than using too much.
It can express:
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Design wisdom: fewer elements create a cleaner look.
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Communication skill: fewer words increase clarity.
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Lifestyle focus: simplicity leads to peace and effectiveness.
Short summary: Keeping things simple usually creates the best outcome.
Origin of “Less Is More”
The phrase goes back to the 19th century and is widely linked to the German architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, a pioneer of minimalist design. Although he popularized the expression in the 1920s, earlier references appear in poetry, including Robert Browning’s 1855 poem Andrea del Sarto, where a similar idea appears.
Most experts agree that:
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The architectural world helped spread the phrase globally.
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Its popularity grew through minimalist art and design, eventually entering everyday English.
Examples in Sentences
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The designer removed extra decorations from the logo, proving that less is more.
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When writing instructions, less is more if you want readers to understand quickly.
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She realized less is more after decluttering her room and feeling calm again.
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In formal presentations, less is more because concise slides look more professional.
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He learned that less is more when cooking—quality ingredients beat complicated recipes.
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Their teacher reminded them that less is more when answering exam essay questions.
Similar Idioms or Phrases
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Keep it simple: Focus on clarity rather than complexity.
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Short and sweet: Something brief can still be effective.
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Quality over quantity: Better to have fewer things of higher value.
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Simplicity is key: Achieving the best results through minimalism.
I turn to this idiom when tackling projects that feel overwhelming. Each time I pause and simplify, the work becomes easier. “Less is more” keeps reminding me to focus on what truly matters.
The idiom “less is more” shines because it captures a timeless truth: simplicity often leads to better results. From design to daily decisions, it encourages clarity and focus. Try using it in your conversations—and if you enjoy learning idioms like this, dive into more language tips anytime!