What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
decrement
Example
The decrement in sales was due to the economic downturn. [decrement: noun]
Example
The company decided to decrement the budget for the project. [decrement: verb]
lessening
Example
The lessening of the storm's intensity brought relief to the residents. [lessening: noun]
Example
The medication helped in lessening the pain. [lessening: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lessening is more commonly used than decrement in everyday language, while decrement is more common in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between decrement and lessening?
Decrement is more formal than lessening and is often used in technical or academic writing, while lessening is more informal and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.