Definitions
- Referring to a decrease in intensity or severity of something. - Talking about a reduction in the amount or quantity of something. - Describing a decline in the force or power of something.
- Referring to a decrease in the degree or extent of something. - Talking about a reduction in the size or amount of something. - Describing a decline in the importance or significance of something.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words refer to a decrease or reduction in something.
- 2Both words can be used to describe a decline in intensity, size, or importance.
- 3Both words are verbs that can be used in the present, past, or future tense.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Abate is more formal and less commonly used than lessen.
- 2Intensity: Abate implies a stronger reduction or decline than lessen.
- 3Focus: Abate emphasizes the reduction of something negative or harmful, while lessen can refer to any type of decrease.
- 4Connotation: Abate can have a legal connotation, while lessen is more neutral in tone.
Remember this!
While abate and lessen both refer to a decrease or reduction in something, there are some differences between the two words. Abate is more formal and implies a stronger reduction or decline than lessen. It also tends to emphasize the reduction of something negative or harmful, while lessen can refer to any type of decrease. Additionally, abate can have a legal connotation, while lessen is more neutral in tone.
