Word
lesser
Phoneticsless·er
US/ˈɫɛsɝ/
UK/lˈɛsɐ/
Definitions
01smaller or less important
adj. used to describe the smaller or less important of two things.
adj. denoting the smaller in size, value, or importance when comparing two entities.
“Between the two options, the first one seemed like the lesser risk.”
“The diplomat argued that the border skirmish was a lesser concern compared to the looming threat of a full-scale trade war.”
Formal
Usage
Typically used before a noun or in the fixed phrase 'the lesser of two evils'.
Pitfall
He chose the lesser of three evils.
He chose the least of three evils.
Use 'lesser' when comparing two things; use 'least' for three or more.
02lower in status
adj. having a lower rank or position than someone else.
adj. of lower status, rank, or quality; often used to describe people or positions in a hierarchy.
“He felt like a lesser member of the team because he was never invited to meetings.”
“The monarch was often forced to negotiate with lesser nobles to ensure the stability of the outer provinces.”
Formal · Literary
Teaching tip
This sense can sound slightly insulting or elitist in modern conversation; use 'junior' or 'subordinate' in professional contexts instead.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“Data from more than 200,000 adults show that high-quality social connections and—to a lesser extent—positive family ties in childhood are associated with better perceptions of overall mental and physical health.” “A lesser told story is their impact on the education of boys.” Collocations
Idioms
lesser of two evils — The least harmful or unpleasant of two undesirable alternatives.