lessen (A2)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˈlɛsən/

Definition

To make or become less in size, amount, importance, or degree.

Examples

• The company hopes to lessen its environmental impact.

• As the storm began to lessen, we ventured outside.

• His determination did not lessen despite the setbacks.

How to Use lessen

lessen something (collocation)

To reduce the amount or intensity of something. — "The government introduced measures to lessen the economic downturn."

lessen by (prepositional phrase)

To reduce something by a specific amount. — "They managed to lessen the debt by 10% this year."

Synonyms of lessen

Words with a similar meaning to lessen:

• decrease
• reduce
• diminish
• alleviate

Antonyms of lessen

Words with the opposite meaning to lessen:

• increase
• intensify

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