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lesser

adj.
C1 Advanced Oxford US //ˈɫɛsɝ// UK //lˈɛsɐ// less·er

adj. smaller in size, amount, or importance when compared to something else. You use this to describe the second-best or less important version of two things.

adj. lower in status, quality, or magnitude than another entity. Often functions as a comparative adjective that does not take 'than' directly, instead modifying a noun to distinguish it from a primary or 'greater' counterpart.


SIMPLE

He was content to play a lesser role in the play.

CONTEXTUAL

While the main storm missed the city, a lesser gale caused minor damage to several coastal properties.

COMPLEX

The treaty was signed by the major powers, though several lesser nations felt their specific territorial concerns had been ignored during the final negotiations.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

Typically used as an attributive adjective before a noun. It is a comparative form that does not follow the standard 'adjective + than' construction.

Pitfall

This task is lesser than that oneThis task is smaller than that oneLesser is rarely used as a predicate adjective after 'is'; it usually sits before a noun.

Idioms1 entry

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