Lessened: meaning, definitions and examples

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lessened

[ˈlɛs(ə)nd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

emotions

To make or become less in intensity, degree, or extent. To decrease in size or amount.

Synonyms

decrease, diminish, dwindle, reduce, weaken.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
lessened	Used when something has been made smaller or less intense over a period of time, often gradually. Her anxiety lessened as the project progressed. The influence of the old traditions has lessened over the years.
reduce	Generally used when you want to make something smaller, less in amount, size, or degree. They aim to reduce their carbon footprint by 20% next year. We need to reduce the expenses to stay within budget.
diminish	Commonly used to describe a reduction in importance, strength, or size, often implying a negative connotation. The constant interruptions began to diminish his enthusiasm for the project. Her health has diminished due to the illness.
decrease	Typically applied when talking about a reduction in quantity, size, or rate, often in a measurable way. The company saw a significant decrease in profits last quarter. The number of students in the class has decreased since the beginning of the year.
weaken	Typically used when something loses strength, power, or intensity, often implying a negative impact. The fortress walls began to weaken after years of neglect. His argument was weakened by the lack of evidence.
dwindle	Often used when something gradually becomes less and less over time until it nearly disappears, usually has a negative connotation. The supplies began to dwindle as the siege continued. The once vibrant community has dwindled to just a few families.

Examples of usage

The pain lessened after taking medication.
His anger lessened as he calmed down.
The workload lessened after hiring more employees.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

importance

To decrease in importance or significance. To make something seem less important.

Synonyms

belittle, devalue, diminish, downplay, undermine.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
lessened	Used when something has decreased in size, amount, or degree over time. It's neutral and descriptive. The pain lessened after taking the medication. Her enthusiasm for the project lessened as she encountered more obstacles.
diminish	Used when something becomes less in size, importance, or intensity. It is neutral and can be used in various contexts. His influence in the company has diminished over the years. The noise from the street diminished as night fell.
devalue	Used when something is reduced in worth or importance, often in a financial or metaphorical sense. It can have a negative connotation. Criticizing their work may devalue their contributions. The currency devalued significantly after the economic crisis.
undermine	Used when something or someone is made weaker or less effective, often secretly or underhandedly. It carries a negative connotation. He tried to undermine her authority by spreading rumors. Continuous stress can undermine your health.
downplay	Used when trying to make something seem less important or serious than it actually is. It often carries a slight negative connotation. The company tried to downplay the negative effects of their product. He downplayed his role in the project to avoid extra responsibilities.
belittle	Used when making someone or something seem less important or significant. It carries a negative connotation and often indicates disrespect or disparagement. He tends to belittle others' achievements to make himself feel superior. Don't belittle her efforts; she's worked very hard on this.

Examples of usage

The issue lessened in importance as new problems arose.
She felt her role was lessened by the arrival of a new manager.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Old English 'leŏsian,' which means to make less.
The prefix 'less-' indicates subtraction or reduction in quantity.
It has roots in Proto-Germanic language, showing a common theme of reduction across various languages.

Psychology

Experiences of loss can lead to feelings of sadness, as individuals often perceive their joy or happiness as being lessened.
In cognitive behavioral therapy, adjusting negative thought patterns can lead to lessened stress and anxiety over time.
Studies show that regular gratitude practices can lead to lessened feelings of loneliness and increased overall well-being.

Literature

In many poetic works, the concept of love being lessened can evoke powerful emotions and highlight vulnerability.
Writers often depict characters facing challenges that lessen their confidence, reflecting human struggles.
The theme of sorrow leading to a lessened spirit appears frequently in tragic literature, grounding the narrative in relatable human experiences.

Science

In physics, energy can be lessened as it transforms from one form to another, illustrating conservation principles.
Noise levels can be lessened using soundproofing materials, demonstrating practical applications of acoustics.
In ecology, the decline of a species can lead to lessened biodiversity, affecting ecosystem balance.

Pop Culture

Songs often explore themes of love that have lessened, resonating with many listeners during breakups.
In movies, characters sometimes experience a lessening of tensions, leading to resolution and closure.
Television shows often use humor to depict scenarios where problems are lessened, creating a lighter narrative.

Translations

Translations of the word "lessened" in other languages:

🇵🇹 diminuído

🇮🇳 कम किया गया

🇩🇪 verringert

🇮🇩 dikurangi

🇺🇦 зменшений

🇵🇱 zmniejszony

🇯🇵 減少した

🇫🇷 réduit

🇪🇸 reducido

🇹🇷 azaltılmış

🇰🇷 줄어든

🇸🇦 مخفف

🇨🇿 zmenšený

🇸🇰 zmenšený

🇨🇳 减少的

🇸🇮 zmanjšan

🇮🇸 minnkaður

🇰🇿 азайған

🇬🇪 გაფუჭებული

🇦🇿 azaldılmış

🇲🇽 reducido

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,453, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

...
10450 foundry
10451 repeats
10452 tilted
10453 lessened
10454 homicide
10455 equip
10456 uphold
...