a lesser level

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a lesser level" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a degree or standard that is lower than another in various contexts, such as performance, quality, or intensity. Example: "The new software operates at a lesser level of efficiency compared to the previous version."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

"Congress wanted a lesser level of evidence," Dr. Phurrough said.

The New York Times - Health

"You're going to get hurt and on a lesser level, we'll get canceled".

The New York Times - Arts

On a lesser level, Corker also said that Trump's description of their exchange was a lie, in that Trump really had wanted to endorse him.

The New Yorker

But those have all been comparisons of students in different circumstances, in what are called cross-sectional studies, whose results are regarded as a lesser level of evidence.

The New York Times - Health

Architecture remained at a lesser level, merging with some success the native traditions of brick buildings and gable roofs and fashionable Renaissance styles.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At a lesser level, if Barry Sonnenfeld's ostentatiously hectic caper movies, like "Get Shorty," have any point, it's in the way they function -- just like "Men in Black," also directed by Mr. Sonnenfeld -- as comic spins on our society's diversity.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

To a lesser degree, the level of mismatch discrimination also increases in RNA·DNA duplexes.

Biochemistry

Interictal CGRP and, to a lesser degree, VIP levels are of help on predicting onabotA response.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

CGRP and, to a lesser degree, VIP levels were significantly increased in responders vs nonresponders.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Differences between CIS group 1 and controls were significant for fructose, acetate, glucose, and, to a lesser degree, glutamine levels.

Plosone

ATRA treatment strongly induced CRBP1 expression at mRNA and, to a lesser degree, protein levels.

Breast Cancer Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two or more things, use "a lesser level" to clearly indicate a reduction in quality, quantity, or intensity. For example, "The project experienced a lesser level of funding compared to the previous year."

Common error

Don't use "a lesser level" without specifying what aspect is being reduced. Instead of saying "The security was at a lesser level", specify "The building's security was at a lesser level of staffing during the holidays."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a lesser level" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun, indicating a reduced quantity, quality, or intensity. Ludwig shows that the phrase often describes the extent or degree of something.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

46%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a lesser level" is a common and grammatically sound way to express a reduction in quantity, quality, or intensity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and suitability for various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what aspect is reduced. Alternatives such as "a lower degree" or "a smaller extent" can be used depending on the specific context. Always aim for precision to avoid ambiguity in your writing. It has a neutral register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a lower degree

Expresses a smaller amount or intensity.

a smaller extent

Indicates a reduced scope or range.

a reduced scale

Suggests a diminished size or magnitude.

a diminished capacity

Refers to a reduced ability or capability.

a lighter intensity

Implies a weaker or milder strength.

a more limited scope

Indicates a restricted or narrower range.

a mitigated form

Suggests a less severe or intense version.

a softened version

Implies a gentler or less harsh iteration.

a less pronounced manner

Refers to a less noticeable or distinct way.

a watered-down approach

Suggests a weaker or less effective method.

FAQs

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

You can use "a lesser level" to indicate a reduction in intensity, quality, or quantity compared to something else. For example, "The company experienced "a lesser level" of profit this quarter".

What's the difference between "a lesser level" and "a lower level"?

While both phrases indicate a reduction, "a lesser level" often implies a difference in degree or quality, while "a lower level" typically refers to a physical position or ranking. You could use alternatives like "a lower degree".

What can I say instead of "a lesser level"?

You can use alternatives like "a lower degree", "a smaller extent", or "a reduced scale" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "a lesser level" in formal writing?

Yes, "a lesser level" is appropriate in formal writing, but ensure the context is clear and the comparison is well-defined. For more formal alternatives, consider phrases like "a reduced scale".