B1verbhealthenvironment
US/ˈles.ən/
UK/ˈles.ən/
to become less, or to make something smaller, weaker or not as bad
In context
Regular exercise can lessen the risk of heart disease.
The pain began to lessen after he took the medicine.
Cheaper bus fares would lessen the number of cars in the city.
Words that go with lessen
verb + noun
- lessen the riskWearing a helmet lessens the risk of injury.
- lessen the impactTrees lessen the impact of heavy rain.
- lessen the burdenNew software will lessen the burden on staff.
- lessen the painA warm bath can lessen the pain.
adverb + verb
- gradually lessenThe noise gradually lessened as we left the city.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
The pain lessens down.Correct: The pain lessens.