a lesser god

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a lesser god" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing mythology, religion, or metaphorically to describe someone or something that holds a lower status or power compared to a greater entity. Example: "In the pantheon of ancient deities, Zeus was the supreme ruler, while Hermes was often seen as a lesser god, serving as a messenger."

✓ Grammatically correct

Mythology

Religion

Metaphorical Descriptions

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Are we children of a lesser god?

The Guardian

Theater ALLIANCE REPERTORY THEATER COMPANY "Children of a Lesser God".

The New York Times

Or of partially deaf Marlee Matlin in "Children of a Lesser God" (1986)?

The Economist

"Children of a Lesser God" is not a sloppy movie - it's all too slick.

The New York Times

"My favorite team of all time is 'Children of a Lesser God,' " Mr. Godfrey said.

The New York Times

On Broadway, she starred in "Children of a Lesser God" and "Seascape" among other plays.

The New York Times

If this is the austerians' idea of an economic miracle, they truly are the children of a lesser god.

The New York Times

Tom Arnold also stars, and Mark Medoff, who wrote the play "Children of a Lesser God," directed.

The New York Times

Though the characters aren't affluent, "Children of a Lesser God" looks rich and romantic in ways that upstage the drama.

The New York Times

The Hudood Ordinances (with her sister, 1990) and Children of a Lesser God: Child Prisoners of Pakistan (1993).

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

She was playing the part of the deaf girl in "Children of a Lesser God," a role that required a confrontation.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a lesser god" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly establishes the comparison and the specific attributes being contrasted.

Common error

Avoid using "a lesser god" in contexts where it might be perceived as disrespectful or dismissive, especially when referring to actual religious figures or beliefs.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a lesser god" primarily functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It can denote a deity of lower rank in a pantheon or be used metaphorically to describe someone with diminished authority or importance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a lesser god" is a grammatically sound noun phrase with versatile applications, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. Primarily, it's used to represent deities of lower rank in mythological or religious contexts. However, its metaphorical usage extends to describing individuals or entities with diminished authority or importance. The phrase’s register ranges from neutral in academic settings to formal in religious discussions. Analysis of Ludwig's examples reveals that it frequently appears in News & Media sources. While alternative phrases like "minor deity" or "subordinate deity" exist, "a lesser god" provides a concise and readily understandable means to convey differences in power or status. When employing the phrase, especially metaphorically, clarity and sensitivity are paramount to avoid misinterpretations or unintended disrespect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor deity

Replaces "god" with a more specific term indicating lower rank in a pantheon.

subordinate deity

Emphasizes the hierarchical relationship, highlighting the subservient role.

demigod

Indicates a being with partial divine status, often born from a god and a mortal.

inferior divinity

Directly states the reduced level of divine status.

secondary power

Shifts the focus from religion to a more general concept of influence.

lesser immortal

Highlights immortality, while also noting the subordinate status.

lower-ranking celestial being

A more descriptive and formal alternative.

small-time deity

An informal alternative, suggesting a lack of significance.

underling god

Emphasizes a subservient position, often with negative connotations.

diminished divine entity

A more verbose option, suitable for formal writing.

FAQs

How can I use "a lesser god" in a sentence?

You can use "a lesser god" to describe a mythological figure of lower rank, or metaphorically to describe someone with less power or influence. For example: "While Zeus ruled the sky, Hermes was seen as "a lesser god", serving as a messenger."

What's a good alternative to "a lesser god"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "minor deity", "subordinate deity", or "demigod".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a lesser god"?

It is appropriate when discussing mythology, comparative religion, or when using it metaphorically to illustrate differences in power or status. Ensure the context is clear and respectful.

Is "a lesser god" always a negative term?

Not necessarily. While it indicates a lower status, it does not inherently carry a negative connotation. Its impact depends on the specific context and the relationship between the entities being compared.