What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lessen
Example
Taking breaks during work can help lessen stress levels. [lessen: verb]
Example
The medication helped lessen the pain in my knee. [lessen: verb]
Example
The company decided to lessen the number of employees due to budget cuts. [lessen: verb]
lower
Example
The sun began to lower in the sky as evening approached. [lower: verb]
Example
The store lowered the prices of their products for the holiday season. [lower: verb]
Example
The teacher decided to lower the importance of homework in the grading system. [lower: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lower is more commonly used than lessen in everyday language. Lower is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while lessen is less common and often used in specific situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between lessen and lower?
Both lessen and lower are considered formal words and can be used in various formality levels, depending on the context.
