The number has been less?

[Torsten]

Hi,

I've just heard the following phrase on CNN:

"... the number of homes burned has been less."

Can a number be less? Maybe the number has been smaller?

Thanks,
Torsten
_________________
Test Of English for International Communication
TOEIC Preparation & TOEIC Vocabulary

[Mister Micawber]

.
I like yours of course, but what you heard on CNN is one odd combination that people do utter.
.
_________________
Canadian-American native speaker
who teaches English for a living at Mister Micawber's
ESL cafe: Interview with Mr. Micawber

[Torsten]

Hi Charles,

Thanks for your quick response. What about "the number has been lower". This would work as well, wouldn't it?
_________________
Test Of English for International Communication
TOEIC Preparation & TOEIC Vocabulary