lesser quantity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lesser quantity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing two or more amounts, indicating that one is smaller than the others. Example: "In this experiment, we used a lesser quantity of the chemical to observe its effects."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

The aircraft could also carry about 1,000 pounds (450 kg) of bombs or a lesser quantity of rockets.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Their venom is more potent but of lesser quantity than that of their mother, a condition that helps ensure that the young can secure food.

Encyclopedia Britannica

25, 1938) Of the National Gallery in Washington he wrote: "The French furniture collection is one-tenth of mine in quality and of lesser quantity.

The New York Times - Arts

Most truffle oils shouldn't cost more than the oil itself: one teaspoon of "truffle aroma," the amount typically used in an eight-ounce boftle of white truffle oil (black truffle oil is made with a lesser quantity of the same chemical) costs about 40 cents.

The New York Times - Food

This implies that lesser quantity of nitric oxide gets desorbed to the gas phase.

Chemical Engineering Journal

In addition, clay minerals are in lesser quantity in the organic soil.

International Journal of Geo-Engineering

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

This blend consists mostly of cabernet franc, with lesser quantities of cabernet sauvignon and merlot.

The New York Times

Lesser quantities of sardines, mackerel, and anchovies also are exploited by littoral states.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Testosterone is the hormone that more or less defines maleness (though women have it too, in lesser quantities).

The Economist

Can this solidification be avoided altogether? A. Honey is a combination of sugars, water, gum and lesser quantities of pollen, wax, acids, proteins, minerals, vitamins, enzymes and pigments.

The New York Times - Food

Cod, haddock, herring, and saithe are the main species taken, with lesser quantities of plaice (a type of marine flatfish), sole, and Norway pout.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing the amounts of two or more things, use "lesser quantity" to clearly indicate which one is smaller. For example, "Use a greater quantity of water, but a "lesser quantity" of acid."

Common error

Avoid using "lesser quantity" when you actually mean "inferior quality". Quantity refers to amount, while quality refers to the characteristics of something. For instance, instead of saying "This is a "lesser quantity" product", say "This is a lower quality product."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lesser quantity" functions as a noun phrase where 'lesser' modifies 'quantity'. It describes a smaller amount of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

20%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lesser quantity" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote a smaller amount compared to something else. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. While it is not as common as alternatives like "smaller amount", it remains a valid choice. Its usage is primarily found in scientific, news, and encyclopedia contexts. When using the phrase, remember to avoid confusing it with similar-sounding terms like "lesser quality", which refers to the attributes of something rather than its amount. Using "lesser quantity" effectively involves understanding its proper context and ensuring it accurately conveys the intended meaning of a reduced amount.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

smaller amount

Replaces "quantity" with the more general term "amount".

reduced amount

Focuses on the reduction in size, suggesting a prior larger amount.

lower amount

Uses a more direct adjective to indicate a smaller size.

smaller proportion

Emphasizes the relative size compared to a whole.

decreased quantity

Highlights the action of reducing the amount.

minimal quantity

Indicates the least possible amount.

scarce quantity

Suggests that the amount is limited and hard to come by.

insufficient amount

Indicates that the amount is not enough for a specific purpose.

meager quantity

Implies that the amount is small and inadequate.

limited amount

Emphasizes that the amount is restricted.

FAQs

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

"Lesser quantity" is used to indicate a smaller amount of something compared to another. For example: "The recipe calls for a larger amount of sugar, but I used a "smaller amount" or a "lesser quantity" to reduce the sweetness."

What's a good substitute for "lesser quantity"?

Alternatives to "lesser quantity" include "smaller amount", "reduced quantity", or "lower amount". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "lesser quantity"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Lesser" is an adjective that modifies the noun "quantity", indicating a smaller amount or degree.

What's the difference between "lesser quantity" and "smaller quantity"?

While both phrases are similar, "smaller quantity" is generally more common and straightforward. "Lesser quantity" can sound slightly more formal, but both are acceptable. Consider using "smaller amount" for even greater clarity.