What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lighten
Example
She decided to lighten her load by removing some items from her backpack. [lighten: verb]
Example
The sun began to lighten the sky as dawn approached. [lighten: verb]
Example
He tried to lighten the mood by telling a joke. [lighten: verb]
lessen
Example
The medication helped lessen the pain in her knee. [lessen: verb]
Example
The storm began to lessen in intensity as it moved away from the coast. [lessen: verb]
Example
His absence lessened the impact of the team's performance. [lessened: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lessen is more commonly used than lighten in everyday language. Lessen is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while lighten is less common and refers to specific situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between lighten and lessen?
Both lighten and lessen can be used in formal or informal contexts, but lighten may be more appropriate for informal situations due to its positive connotation.
