a lesser scale

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a lesser scale" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is smaller or less significant in size, importance, or degree compared to something else. Example: "The project was successful, but it was implemented on a lesser scale than originally planned."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Down south, Burke-Dunsmore has met with similar resistance, although on a lesser scale.

The Guardian - Opinion

The UN has faced similar problems throughout its history, although on a lesser scale.

The Guardian - Opinion

Volcanism has continued on a lesser scale into the Holocene Epoch (the past 11,700 years).

Encyclopedia Britannica

On a lesser scale, I'm subjected to daily social media abuse from people who happen to vote Tory or Ukip.

The Guardian - Opinion

Premium events would carry the most value for participating athletes while classic events would be remunerated on a lesser scale.

The New York Times - Sports

In Arabia and North Africa, popular shows on a lesser scale were performed in the open air.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

The Red Arrows-a lesser-scale version of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds-did a nifty display of aerobatics for us as we sipped champagne in the sparkling sunshine.

Forbes

A similar thing happens, but on a much lesser scale, when Brazil or Argentina or Spain wins the World Cup.

Huffington Post

Also, they have to remember that the real politicians, our elected representatives, get to decide if it's too much fuss to confront a convenient local power broker's Nazi past or, on a far lesser scale, his ties to drug runners.

The New Yorker

"On a far lesser scale to Jude," she says.

The Guardian - Books

Other western correspondents have also suffered from occasional "home intrusions", but on a much lesser scale.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two situations, use "a lesser scale" to clearly indicate that one is smaller or less intense than the other. For instance, "While both events caused disruption, the second occurred on "a lesser scale".

Common error

Avoid using "a lesser scale" with concepts that aren't measurable or gradable. For example, it's inappropriate to say "He showed "a lesser scale" of honesty"; instead, rephrase to something like "He was somewhat dishonest".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a lesser scale" typically functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating the degree or extent to which something is happening. It is used to compare and contrast the size, intensity, or impact of one thing relative to another. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Encyclopedias

18%

Science

16%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a lesser scale" is a versatile and grammatically correct expression used to indicate that something occurs to a smaller extent or with reduced intensity compared to something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted and employed in diverse contexts, particularly in news, encyclopedias, and scientific writing. While alternatives like ""a smaller magnitude"" or ""a reduced degree"" exist, "a lesser scale" is effective in establishing comparisons and providing perspective. When using this phrase, ensure that it's applied to gradable concepts and integrated into your writing to highlight relative differences accurately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a smaller magnitude

Focuses on the size or impact being reduced.

a reduced degree

Emphasizes that something happens to a lower extent.

a diminished extent

Highlights the reduction in scope or range.

a lower level

Indicates a decrease in intensity or height.

a slighter proportion

Highlights a smaller ratio or fraction.

a more limited scope

Emphasizes the restricted nature of something.

a less significant amount

Focuses on the quantity being less important.

a curtailed measure

Implies a reduction or limitation in the amount.

a minimized size

Highlights the reduced physical dimensions or scope.

a lighter touch

Suggests a more delicate or less forceful approach.

FAQs

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

Use "a lesser scale" to compare the size, intensity, or extent of something relative to something else. For example, "The impact of the policy change was felt nationwide, but on "a much lesser scale" in rural areas".

What phrases are similar in meaning to "a lesser scale"?

Alternatives include "a smaller magnitude", "a reduced degree", or "a more limited scope". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to include the article 'a' before "lesser scale"?

Yes, the article 'a' is generally required before "lesser scale" when using the phrase to modify a noun or describe something happening to a smaller degree. Omitting 'a' can sound unnatural.

Which is more appropriate, "a lesser scale" or "a smaller scale"?

While both are acceptable, "a lesser scale" often implies a difference in intensity, importance, or impact, whereas "a smaller scale" primarily refers to physical size or scope. Choose the phrase that best fits the intended nuance.