Even if you go with love less, however the word is still properly translated hate, you still have two different levels of love. God does NOT love all equally nor does Scripture teach that anywhere.
But what about the modifiers around the embedded root word. They do change the meaning.
The Root Greek word is : - μισέω
The Greek word with the embedded Greek Root
μισέω within that Greek word is: - ἐμίσησα
Now for you to claim that the meaning of both Greek words is the same, then you are mistaken.
Now we can "hate" the inappropriate actions of a person, but still love them, but our love for that person will be tempered by the hate we have for their inappropriate behaviour. So in effect, we love them a little less.
It seems to me that your self belief in your learning is your downfall. I will still love you but not as much as if I had confidence in your learning.
Shalom