“Less is more”: meaning, origin and examples
What it means
The phrase Less is more suggests that simplicity and minimalism often lead to better outcomes, as focusing on essential elements can have a more powerful effect.
Tone Concise and thoughtful.
Where it comes from
The phrase Less is more is often attributed to Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, a German-American architect known for his minimalist designs, although poet Robert Browning also used it in a poem published in 1855.
Examples
- In design, ‘less is more’ is a guiding principle that emphasizes simplicity and functionality.
- Even in conversations, sometimes less is more, as being concise can deliver a stronger impact.
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