lesser extent

USAGE SUMMARY

'lesser extent' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to denote a lower magnitude or degree in comparison to something else. For example: The hurricane had a greater impact on the East Coast than the West Coast, though it was still felt to a lesser extent.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So, to a lesser extent, has Mexico.

The Economist

"But that's to a lesser extent.

The New York Times

DMGT, to a lesser extent, has also suffered".

The Guardian - Business

This, to a lesser extent, is what all parenting is.

The New Yorker

Also, to a lesser extent Beirut, Radiohead and the National.

The Guardian - Music

To a lesser extent so did Karim Sadiq.

The Guardian - Sport

So, to a lesser extent, have Bush and McCain.

The New Yorker

Israel condemned Russia's move, and to a lesser extent Europe's.

The Guardian

Something similar operated, to a lesser extent, with Katharine Hepburn.

The New Yorker

To a lesser extent, Buddhism was also important.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Spicy Malay (and to a lesser extent Chinese) cuisine dominates.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

For clarity, consider specifying how much "lesser" the extent is, when possible, by providing quantitative data.

Common error

Avoid using "lesser extent" without a clear reference point for comparison. Ensure the reader understands what the extent is lesser than, otherwise the phrase loses its meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lesser extent" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to indicate the degree to which an action or state occurs. As Ludwig AI explains, it denotes a lower magnitude or degree in comparison to something else.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

41%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Science & Research

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lesser extent" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to indicate that something is true or applicable to a smaller degree than something else. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for a wide range of contexts, including news, science, and general discussions. To use it effectively, ensure there's a clear point of comparison to avoid ambiguity. Quantifying the "lesser extent" can also add precision. Common alternatives include ""smaller degree"" and "reduced scale". By following these guidelines, you can use "lesser extent" effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

smaller degree

Focuses on the degree or intensity being reduced.

reduced scale

Emphasizes the size or magnitude being diminished.

on a smaller scale

Focuses on the overall size or scope of the impact.

limited scope

Highlights that the reach or range is restricted.

in a limited fashion

Highlights the restricted manner or way in which something occurs.

to a degree

This is a more general way of acknoledging some influence or change.

to a minimal degree

Emphasizes the very small impact or change.

somewhat

A simpler way to indicate a slight or moderate degree.

partially

Suggests that only a portion or aspect is affected.

to a certain point

Indicates a limit or boundary to the impact or effect.

FAQs

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

Use "lesser extent" to indicate that something is true or happening, but not as much as something else. For example, "The new policy affected large corporations, and smaller businesses to a "smaller degree"".

What's a good alternative to "lesser extent"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "lesser extent" include phrases like ""smaller degree"", "reduced scale", or "limited scope".

Is it better to quantify "lesser extent"?

Whenever possible, quantifying the "lesser extent" with specific data or percentages adds precision and clarity to your writing, making the comparison more impactful and understandable.

What are some typical writing mistakes when using the phrase "lesser extent"?

A common mistake is using "lesser extent" without a clear reference point, leaving the reader unsure of what is being compared. Always ensure that the comparison is explicit and easily understood.