a lesser size

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a lesser size" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing sizes, indicating that one size is smaller or inferior to another. Example: "The new model comes in a lesser size, making it more suitable for smaller spaces."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

On the other hand, for the first time, we report that piezoelectricity in MgO-passivated ZnO nanowires exhibits a lesser size dependence than in the bare ones, a finding that may prove useful in the design of emerging ultraviolet optoelectronic devices.

Superlattices and Microstructures

If both stars collide, they will be reduced to a lesser size within the same type of object.

Wikipedia

The lighthouse on North Island flanking Winyah Bay collapsed under high winds, and in Georgetown proper, the hurricane was considered to be the worst since the 1804 Antigua Charleston hurricane, despite its storm surge being of a lesser size.

Wikipedia

Moreover, everything being equal, juveniles fish that are small may attain a lesser size than large ones and may therefore be likely to suffer less from fishing selection.

Evolutionary Applications

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

With increasing sample size, a lesser effect size is needed in order to obtain statistically significant results, whilst maintaining the desired minimum power (80%).

BMC Cancer

Synchronistically, during the very week the 2012 NDAA was passed, the Russian scientist Dr. Igor Semiletov reported that methane plumes over 1000 meters across were erupting in the Arctic Ocean and that he had mapped over 100 eruptions of lesser size in a 10,000 square mile area.

Huffington Post

They are, if anything, a new "Greatest Generation" both in terms of voting patterns and, to a lesser extent, size – though we can still expect the Millennials to grow somewhat as a percentage of the electorate, since people are more likely to vote as they get older.

The Guardian - Opinion

The P4 of MFI-K171 can be distinguished from those of K. chiangmuanensis by a lesser relative size of the talonid basin: the ratio between the surface area of the talonid basin (including the contribution of the distal faces of the protoconid and the metaconid) and the maximum crown area is for 0.333 for MFI-K171 against 0.459 and 0.456 for K. chiangmuanensis TF 6171-3 and TF 6179.

Plosone

By contrast, it could reflect the increased prevalence of DM with age and the ability to detect an association with a lesser sample size when there is a greater cohort at risk for DM.

BMJ Open

Thus we conclude that nanorod-based molecular markers selected for a narrow aspect ratio and, to a lesser degree, size distribution, could provide spectral lines sufficiently narrow for effective biomedical imaging.

Biomedical Optics Express

"What we're having is a change in leadership," he said, with value stocks and those of lesser size gaining favor at the expense of growth stocks, many of which still carry high price-to-earnings multiples.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two items, use "a lesser size" to clearly indicate which one is smaller. For example: "Choose the option with "a lesser size" if space is limited."

Common error

Avoid using "a lesser size" when "smaller" is more direct and clear. Overuse of "lesser" can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or awkward.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a lesser size" functions as a pre-modifier to the noun "size", indicating a comparative degree. It is used to describe something that is smaller or of a reduced dimension when compared to something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

75%

Wiki

12%

News & Media

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a lesser size" is a grammatically correct way to indicate that something is smaller compared to something else. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, although it is less common than alternatives like "smaller size". It is most frequently found in scientific and technical contexts, with occasional use in news and general reference materials. While acceptable in most situations, choosing simpler alternatives such as "smaller size" can often improve clarity and conciseness. It's a slightly formal expression, where simple and direct alternatives are generally preferrable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a smaller dimension

Focuses on physical measurements, implying a reduction in length, width, or height.

a reduced magnitude

Emphasizes the scale or extent being diminished, suitable for abstract or physical contexts.

a slighter extent

Highlights a decrease in scope or degree, often used for abstract qualities or impacts.

a diminished volume

Specifically refers to the amount of space occupied, relevant for liquids, gases, or containers.

a narrower scope

Indicates a limitation or restriction in range or breadth, common in discussions of topics or areas of study.

a more compact form

Suggests a denser or more condensed arrangement, often used for designs or structures.

a scaled-down version

Implies a deliberate reduction in size while maintaining proportions, suitable for models or replicas.

a miniature edition

Specifically denotes a very small or diminutive copy, often used for collectibles or specialized products.

a trimmed figure

Indicates a reduction by cutting or removing parts, relevant for shapes, data or physical objects.

a more petite design

Suggests a smaller and often more delicate or elegant design, suitable for fashion or architecture.

FAQs

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

You can use "a lesser size" when comparing the dimensions of two or more objects, for example: "This model comes in "a lesser size", making it easier to transport."

What's a more common way to say "a lesser size"?

Alternatives for "a lesser size" include "smaller size", "reduced size", or "diminished size", depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "a lesser size" formal or informal?

"A lesser size" is somewhat formal. In many everyday situations, "smaller size" is a perfectly acceptable and often preferred alternative.

When is it appropriate to use "a lesser size" instead of "smaller size"?

"A lesser size" can be used when comparing two items and emphasizing the degree of reduction or inferiority in size. However, "smaller size" is generally more direct and widely understood.