What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
diminish
Example
The company's profits have diminished over the years. [diminished: past participle]
Example
The impact of the storm was diminished by the quick response of emergency services. [diminish: verb]
lessen
Example
Taking breaks throughout the day can lessen the strain on your eyes. [lessen: verb]
Example
The medication helped lessen the symptoms of the illness. [lessen: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lessen is more commonly used in everyday language than diminish. It is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while diminish is more formal and less common.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between diminish and lessen?
Diminish is more formal than lessen. It is often used in academic or professional settings to describe a decrease in something's importance, value, or quality. Lessen is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
