# lesser

/ˈɫɛsɝ/ (US) · /lˈɛsɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lesser
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. smaller or less important

adjective · CEFR B2 · Formal

used to describe the smaller or less important of two things.

For teachers: 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.

Usage: Typically used before a noun or in the fixed phrase 'the lesser of two evils'.

### 2. lower in status

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal · Literary

having a lower rank or position than someone else.

For teachers: 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.

Teaching tip: This sense can sound slightly insulting or elitist in modern conversation; use 'junior' or 'subordinate' in professional contexts instead.

## Examples

- He was content to play a lesser role in the play.
- While the main storm missed the city, a lesser gale caused minor damage to several coastal properties.
- The treaty was signed by the major powers, though several lesser nations felt their specific territorial concerns had been ignored during the final negotiations.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.