Lessen

Pronunciation: /ˈlɛsən/

Definitions of lessen

verb to make or become less; to decrease in size, intensity, or degree

Example Sentences

A1 Eating smaller portions can help lessen your weight.

A2 Taking breaks during studying can lessen your stress levels.

B1 Regular exercise can lessen the risk of heart disease.

B2 Implementing new safety measures can lessen workplace accidents.

C1 Effective communication strategies can lessen misunderstandings in a team.

C2 Advanced technology has the potential to lessen environmental impact.

Examples of lessen in a Sentence

formal Implementing new safety protocols can help lessen the risk of accidents in the workplace.

informal Eating smaller portions can help lessen your calorie intake.

slang Skipping the party might lessen the drama between you and your ex.

figurative Forgiving others can lessen the burden of anger and resentment in your heart.

Grammatical Forms of lessen

• past tense: lessened
• plural: lessen
• comparative: less
• superlative: least
• present tense: lessen
• future tense: will lessen
• perfect tense: have lessened
• continuous tense: is lessening
• singular: lessen
• positive degree: less
• infinitive: to lessen
• gerund: lessening
• participle: lessening

Origin and Evolution of lessen

First Known Use: 1250 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'lessen' originated from Middle English 'lessenen' which was derived from Old French 'lessener' and ultimately from Latin 'minuere' meaning 'to make smaller'.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'lessen' has retained its meaning of reducing or making something smaller, but has also come to be used in a more abstract sense to indicate a decrease in intensity or importance.