lessening of the width

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lessening of the width" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are describing a reduction in the measurement or extent of something's width. Example: "The lessening of the width of the river has caused concern among local residents regarding potential flooding."

✓ Grammatically correct

The phrase appears in contexts related to physical dimensions and abstract concepts.

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

I mean, if your hips are wide then the dark colour of the skirt tends to lessen the effect of the width".

The Guardian - Opinion

Damaging the ribs will lessen the effect of the turn.

WikiHow

Saddle width: Match yours to the width of your pelvis/sit bones.

Huffington Post

It is 7.2mm thick, about the width of a pencil.

Huffington Post

Cut to the width of the panels.

WikiHow

A commutation lessens the severity of the punishment.

The New York Times

That would lessen the suffering of the people in Gaza.

The New York Times

This difference may have lessened the validity of the comparisons.

Clinical interventions in aging

This will help lessen the shock of the colder air.

WikiHow

If it spins backward, lessen the force of the flick.

WikiHow

Vinegar and water can lessen the pain of the sting.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical objects, consider using more direct terms like "reduction in width" for clarity and conciseness.

Common error

Avoid using "lessening of the width" in informal contexts. Simpler phrases like "reduced width" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lessening of the width" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the act or process of something becoming less wide. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

34%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "lessening of the width" is grammatically sound but relatively infrequent. As Ludwig AI points out, it describes the process of reducing something's width and tends to appear in neutral to formal contexts like news or scientific articles. For clarity and impact, consider using more direct synonyms such as "reduction in width" in less formal situations. The sources highlight it's use in diverse situations, from describing physical dimensions to abstract ideas. While correct, optimizing word choice can enhance the readability and appropriateness of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reduction in width

This alternative directly replaces "lessening" with "reduction", providing a more concise synonym.

narrowing of the width

This alternative substitutes "lessening" with "narrowing", emphasizing the act of becoming less wide.

decrease in width

This option uses "decrease" instead of "lessening", highlighting the quantitative reduction in width.

reduction of width

This variation removes "in the" offering a more direct phrasing.

decline in width

This alternative employs "decline" to suggest a gradual reduction in width.

diminution of width

This option uses "diminution" for a more formal and less common synonym of "lessening".

shrinking of the width

This phrase employs "shrinking" to imply a contraction or reduction in size of the width.

abatement of the width

Using "abatement" this suggests a more gradual or controlled decrease in width.

tapering of the width

Using "tapering" suggests a gradual narrowing from one end to another.

compression of width

This alternative conveys a force acting upon something to reduce its width.

FAQs

How can I use "lessening of the width" in a sentence?

You can use "lessening of the width" to describe a reduction in the physical dimension of something. For example, "The lessening of the width of the river has caused concern among local residents."

What are some alternatives to "lessening of the width"?

Alternatives include "reduction in width", "narrowing of the width", or "decrease in width" depending on the specific context.

Is "lessening of the width" formal or informal?

"Lessening of the width" leans towards the formal side. In more casual contexts, consider using simpler phrases like "reduced width".

When is it appropriate to use "lessening of the width" versus a more direct phrase?

Use "lessening of the width" when you want to emphasize the process of reducing width, often in more formal or technical writing. For general descriptions, "reduction in width" or "reduced width" may be more suitable.