Grammar Tips & Articles »

Lessen vs. Lesson

Lessen and lesson are two words that are often confused because of their similar spellings and pronunciations. However, they have different meanings and uses in the English language. In this essay, we will explore the difference between lessen and lesson, with examples of their usage.


1:36 min read
1,267 Views
  Annie Lam  —  Grammar Tips
Font size:

Lessen

Lessen is a verb that means to make something smaller or reduce in amount, intensity, or degree. It is often used to describe the decrease or alleviation of a problem, difficulty, or burden.

For example, if a person takes pain medication, it may lessen their discomfort. If a company implements cost-cutting measures, it may lessen its financial burden. If a country reduces its carbon emissions, it may lessen its environmental impact.

Some synonyms of lessen include decrease, diminish, and reduce.

Lesson

Lesson is a noun that refers to a unit of instruction, usually given in a classroom setting, aimed at imparting knowledge or skill. It can also refer to a moral or practical teaching that can be learned from an experience or situation.

For example, a student may attend a math lesson to learn algebraic equations. A person who makes a mistake may learn a lesson from the experience and avoid making the same mistake in the future. A story or fable may contain a moral lesson, such as the importance of honesty or courage.

Lessen vs. Lesson

Some synonyms of lesson include class, lecture, and instruction.

Usage

It is important to use the terms lessen and lesson correctly in different contexts. Lessen is used to describe a reduction or decrease, while lesson is used to describe an educational or moral teaching.

Here are some examples of correct usage:

Conclusion

Lessen and lesson may sound similar, but they have different meanings and usage in the English language. Lessen refers to a decrease or reduction, while lesson refers to an educational or moral teaching. By understanding the difference between these two terms, we can use them correctly in our communication and avoid confusion.

Rate this article:

Have a discussion about this article with the community:

0 Comments

    Citation

    Use the citation below to add this article to your bibliography:

    Style:MLAChicagoAPA

    "Lessen vs. Lesson." Grammar.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 14 Oct. 2024. <https://www.grammar.com/lessen_vs._lesson>.

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Chrome

    Check your text and writing for style, spelling and grammar problems everywhere on the web!

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Firefox

    Check your text and writing for style, spelling and grammar problems everywhere on the web!

    Free Writing Tool:

    Instant
    Grammar Checker

    Improve your grammar, vocabulary, style, and writing — all for FREE!


    Quiz

    Are you a grammar master?

    »
    Choose the sentence with correct use of the indefinite pronoun:
    A Someone is waiting for a bus.
    B Few have finished the assignment.
    C Everybody should bring their own lunch.
    D Each of the students is presenting his own project.

    Improve your writing now:

    Download Grammar eBooks

    It’s now more important than ever to develop a powerful writing style. After all, most communication takes place in reports, emails, and instant messages.