What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
abate
Example
The storm finally began to abate, and the winds died down. [abate: verb]
Example
The company's profits have abated in recent years due to increased competition. [abated: past participle]
lessen
Example
The medication helped lessen the pain in my knee. [lessen: verb]
Example
The company decided to lessen its environmental impact by reducing waste. [lessening: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lessen is more commonly used than abate in everyday language. Lessen is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while abate is less common and tends to be used in more formal or legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between abate and lessen?
Abate is more formal than lessen and is often used in legal or technical contexts. Lessen is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
