B2adjectivelanguagesociety
US/ˈles.ər/
UK/ˈles.ə/
smaller, less important or less serious than something else of the same kind
In context
He was charged with a lesser crime and received a short sentence.
Everyone helped, but to a lesser extent than the leaders.
Choose the lesser of two evils if you have no other choice.
Words that go with lesser
adverb + adjective
- lesser knownThis is one of the lesser known islands in the region.
adjective + noun
- lesser extentPrices rose, and wages to a lesser extent.
- lesser evilVoters often pick the lesser evil.
- lesser degreeThe disease affects women to a lesser degree.
- lesser chargeHe pleaded guilty to a lesser charge.
- lesser offenseStealing food is a lesser offense than robbery.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
This is lesser than thatCorrect: This is less than that