Definitions
- Describing a reduction in weight or burden. - Referring to the brightening or illumination of a space or object. - Talking about making something less serious or intense.
- Describing a decrease in amount, intensity, or severity. - Referring to the reduction of pain or discomfort. - Talking about the diminishing of importance or significance.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe a decrease or reduction in something.
- 2Both can be used to describe physical or emotional states.
- 3Both can be used in formal or informal contexts.
- 4Both can be used as verbs.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Lighten is more commonly used to describe a reduction in weight or burden, while lessen is more commonly used to describe a decrease in amount, intensity, or severity.
- 2Intensity: Lighten can also refer to the brightening or illumination of a space or object, while lessen is more focused on the reduction of something.
- 3Connotation: Lighten has a more positive connotation, often implying relief or improvement, while lessen can have a neutral or negative connotation, implying loss or reduction.
- 4Parts of speech: Lighten can be used as a verb or an adjective, while lessen is primarily used as a verb.
Remember this!
Lighten and lessen are synonyms that describe a decrease or reduction in something. However, lighten is more commonly used to describe a reduction in weight or burden, while lessen is more commonly used to describe a decrease in amount, intensity, or severity. Additionally, lighten can also refer to the brightening or illumination of a space or object, while lessen is more focused on the reduction of something.
