even lesser

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "even lesser" is not standard in written English and is generally considered incorrect.
It can be used in informal contexts, but it is better to use "less" instead, as "lesser" is typically reserved for comparisons involving rank or quality. Example: "In this situation, the consequences are even lesser than we initially thought."

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Even lesser lights have joined the act.

The New York Times

Even lesser buildings are now being lighted.

The New York Times

That means even lesser known labels can stand out.

The New York Times

Even lesser penalties can effectively end a military career.

The New York Times

But an ETA with no arms would be an even lesser threat than one with them.

The Economist

Those being killed by the drones are of midlevel or even lesser importance, the general said.

The New York Times

Even lesser, more specific initiatives command a reverence out of proportion with actual facts.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Even lesser-known individuals.

Independent

Even lesser-known chains are downsizing.

The New York Times

But even lesser-known players made contributions today.

The New York Times - Sports

Yet the tone was ever recognisable, and even lesser-known books – Slapstick, Deadeye Dick, Hocus Pocus – sold well.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using "even less" for a more concise and grammatically straightforward alternative, especially in formal writing. Reserve "even lesser" for contexts where comparing rank or quality is central to the meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "even lesser" when simply indicating a smaller quantity or degree. "Less" is generally more appropriate in these situations. For example, instead of "even lesser effort", use "even less effort".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "even lesser" functions as a comparative, intensifying the degree to which something is less than another. It's commonly used to emphasize a diminished quality, importance, or quantity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "even lesser" is used to emphasize a comparison where something is significantly less than something else, across a variety of contexts, from news to science. While Ludwig AI flags this expression as acceptable, it's essential to note that using ""even less"" may often be a grammatically more sound and concise choice, especially in formal writing. The decision to use "even lesser" should hinge on whether the comparison involves a ranking or qualitative assessment, in which case it is most relevant.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

even less significant

Highlights reduced importance.

to an even smaller extent

Adds formality and precision to the comparison.

even to a reduced degree

Offers a more formal and measured tone.

even smaller

Focuses on size rather than degree.

even lower

Emphasizes a downward direction or reduced level.

even a lower level

Emphasizes a hierarchical or quantitative decrease.

even slighter

Implies a smaller difference or impact.

even a more diminished

Implies a reduction in strength or value.

even a smaller amount

Focuses on quantity rather than quality.

still less

A more concise and direct alternative.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "even lesser"?

The phrase "even lesser" is suitable when comparing ranks or qualities. However, in many cases, "even less" might be a more grammatically sound choice.

What are some alternatives to "even lesser"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "even smaller", "even less significant", or "to a lesser extent".

Is "even lesser" grammatically correct?

While "even lesser" is used, particularly in certain expressions, it is often perceived as less grammatically precise than "even less". The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

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

You might use "even lesser" when discussing the magnitude of something. For instance: "The impact of the second mistake was of "even lesser" consequence than the first".