lesser

[ˈlɛsər]

lesser Definition

• 1. smaller in size, amount, or importance than something else
• 2. used to describe a person who is of lower rank or status than someone else

Using lesser: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "lesser" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The lesser of the two evils.

• Example

  She was accused of a lesser crime.

• Example

  He holds a lesser position in the company.

• Example

  The lesser-known facts about the event are often overlooked.

lesser Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for lesser

• inferior
• minor
• lower
• secondary
• subordinate

Antonyms for lesser

• greater
• major
• superior

Phrases with lesser

• lesser extent

  to a smaller degree or amount

  Example

  The new policy will affect the sales of the product to a lesser extent.

• lesser-known

  not well known or familiar

  Example

  The museum has a collection of lesser-known works by famous artists.

• the lesser of two evils

  a choice between two unpleasant options, where one option is less bad than the other

  Example

  I don't like either candidate, but I'll vote for the lesser of two evils.

Origins of lesser

from Old English 'lǣssa', comparative of 'lǣs' meaning 'less'

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Summary: lesser in Brief

The term 'lesser' [ˈlɛsər] describes something that is smaller, less important, or lower in rank than something else. It can refer to things like crimes or positions, as in 'She was accused of a lesser crime' and 'He holds a lesser position in the company.' 'Lesser' also appears in phrases like 'lesser extent,' indicating a smaller degree or amount, and 'the lesser of two evils,' which describes a choice between two unpleasant options where one is less bad than the other.