Lesser Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lesser

[ˈlɛsər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

comparative degree

Lower in quality, amount, or size than is usual or average. Inferior or subordinate in rank, importance, or degree.

Synonyms

inferior, lower, minor, subordinate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
lesser	Use this word when comparing importance, size, or degree. It is commonly used in formal or literary contexts. He played a lesser role in the project. This is a matter of lesser importance.
inferior	This word often carries a negative connotation and is used to describe something or someone as being lower in quality, status, or rank. The quality of this product is inferior to the other one. He felt inferior when compared to his peers.
subordinate	This word is often used in professional or organizational settings to describe someone who is under the authority of another person. It can also be used to describe the lower importance of something. He is my subordinate and reports to me daily. In the company's hierarchy, she holds a subordinate position.
minor	This word is used to describe something that is not very important or serious in nature. It can also be used to talk about someone who is under the legal age of adulthood. He played a minor role in the movie. The injury was minor and didn't require medical attention. She is a minor and cannot sign legal documents on her own.
lower	Use this word to describe something that is positioned below something else, either physically or hierarchically. He lives on the lower floor of the building. The lower ranks of the company need more training.

Examples of usage

The lesser evil
A lesser-known artist
Her lesser-known works
The lesser of two evils
The lesser of two evils is still evil

^{Context #2 | Noun}

archaic

A person of lower rank or status.

Synonyms

minion, servant, subordinate, underling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
lesser	Use 'lesser' to describe something of lower quality, importance, or value compared to something else. It can also refer to a smaller degree or amount. He was given a lesser role in the play. The lesser-known artist had a unique style.
servant	A 'servant' is someone who performs duties for others, especially in a house or as a personal assistant. The term can be neutral or show a position of lower status. The wealthy family had several servants in their mansion. A loyal servant can be hard to find.
underling	Implies someone of lower status or rank, often used in a disdainful or disparaging manner. The boss treated his underlings with little respect. He saw his colleagues as mere underlings.
minion	This word often refers to someone who is a follower or underling of a powerful person. It's usually used in a derogatory manner. The evil villain’s minions were always by his side. He sent his minions to do his dirty work.
subordinate	Used in professional or organizational settings to describe someone who ranks lower in a hierarchy. It is often neutral in tone. He gave instructions to his subordinates. As a manager, she is responsible for several subordinates.

Examples of usage

Servants and other lessers

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

In ethical discussions, the term lesser can refer to actions that cause minimal harm compared to greater evils, promoting critical thinking about choices.
The Lesser Evil Principle suggests that individuals might choose a less desirable option to avoid a more harmful one, a common dilemma in moral philosophy.

Culture

In some cultures, the idea of 'lesser' can imply humility, where individuals downplay their importance in favor of community unity.
Various fables and folk tales use the concept of lesser beings, emphasizing the values of humility and learning from those who seem less important.

Literature

The term 'lesser' has appeared in numerous literary works, often to denote characters or themes that lack the prominence of others, highlighting contrasts.
Shakespeare frequently used the notion of lesser figures in his plays to emphasize the disparity between nobility and common folk.

Origin of 'lesser'

Main points about word origin

The word 'lesser' comes from Old English 'læs', which means 'less', showing its roots in the concept of smallness.
It is often used to describe things that are not the most significant or largest when comparing two or more items.
The usage of 'lesser' in literature dates back to the 14th century, showcasing its long-standing presence in the English language.

The word 'lesser' originated from the Old English word 'lǣsra', which is the comparative form of 'lǣssa' meaning 'less'. Over time, the term evolved to its current form, retaining its meaning of being lower or inferior in quality, amount, or size than is usual or average. The word has been in use for centuries, becoming a common adjective and noun in the English language.

See also: less, lessee, lessen, lessened, lessening, lesson, lessons, lessor, unless.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,082, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.

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4081 sixteen
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