is lessening

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is lessening" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a gradual decrease or reduction in something over time. Example: "The pain in my back is lessening after a few days of rest and medication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

But the pressure is lessening.

The Economist

These days, the pain is lessening, though slowly, she said.

The New York Times

"There's been enough time where that friction is lessening".

The New York Times

"The crisis is lessening," said Aldo Amitrano, a sanitation department supervisor on the scene.

The New York Times

"However, there is a clear perception that tensions are easing and that the likelihood of a conflict is lessening".

The New York Times

AIDS advocates fear that any suggestion that the epidemic is lessening in intensity will cause fatigued donors to contribute less.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

Runoff, which collects harmful pollutants, is lessened.

The New York Times

Every piece here is lessened by comparison.

The Guardian - Arts

He gets across the bridge and his fear is lessened.

The New Yorker

And abnormality is lessened by the fact that there are two of them".

The New York Times - Arts

The "mind chatter" is lessened and the "volume" turned down on persistent and negative thought patterns.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is lessening" to describe a gradual reduction or decrease over time. For example, "The severity of the symptoms is lessening with medication."

Common error

Avoid using "is lessening" when a more precise term like "is stopping" or "is disappearing" would be more accurate. "Is lessening" implies a gradual process, not a sudden cessation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is lessening" functions as a present continuous verb phrase. It describes an ongoing process of reduction or diminution. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it is used to indicate a gradual decrease in intensity, pressure, or amount.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

13%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is lessening" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe a gradual decrease. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples from reliable sources, primarily in News & Media. While versatile, it's best suited for contexts where a gradual reduction is intended, rather than a sudden stop. Consider alternatives like "is diminishing" or "is easing" for nuanced meanings. Remember that it implies an ongoing action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is diminishing

Emphasizes a gradual reduction in size, importance, or intensity.

is decreasing

Highlights a numerical or measurable reduction.

is declining

Implies a downward trend or deterioration.

is easing

Focuses on the reduction of pressure or tension.

is fading

Suggests a gradual disappearance or weakening.

is abating

Indicates a reduction in intensity, often used for negative phenomena like storms or pain.

is subsiding

Implies a calming down or settling after a period of intensity.

is waning

Suggests a decrease in power, influence, or popularity.

is alleviating

Focuses on the reduction of suffering or difficulty.

is mitigating

Highlights efforts to reduce the severity or impact of something.

FAQs

How can I use "is lessening" in a sentence?

Use "is lessening" to describe a gradual decrease or reduction. For instance, "The pain in my leg "is lessening" with each day of rest."

What are some alternatives to "is lessening"?

You can use phrases like "is diminishing", "is decreasing", or "is easing" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "the problem is lessening"?

Yes, it's grammatically correct. It indicates that the problem is gradually becoming smaller or less severe.

What's the difference between "is lessening" and "is alleviating"?

"Is lessening" describes a natural reduction, while "is alleviating" implies that something is being done to reduce the severity or impact of something else.