to a lesser extent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to a lesser extent" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe something that is not as strong or as significant as something else. For example, "Gender inequality still exists today, to a lesser extent than it did a century ago."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

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

To a lesser extent adoptees has become parents.

Princeton University

Bangladesh and, to a lesser extent, in 25 other countries.

Harvard University

to a lesser extent, those available at other universities.

Harvard University

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

Also, the dehydrogenation pressure increases, although to a lesser extent.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to a lesser extent", ensure that the primary subject or action is clearly defined before introducing the secondary element that experiences the effect to a lesser degree. This clarifies the comparison and enhances readability.

Common error

Avoid using "to a lesser extent" when the difference is negligible or insignificant. Overusing it can dilute the impact of your writing and make comparisons seem forced where they aren't necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to a lesser extent" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb, adjective, or another adverb to indicate the degree to which something is true or applicable. As Ludwig AI explains, it shows that something exists or occurs, but not as strongly or significantly as something else.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

30%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to a lesser extent" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to indicate that something is true or applicable, but not as strongly or significantly as something else. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely applicable in English writing. It is most commonly found in News & Media, Science, and Academic contexts, reflecting its utility in expressing nuanced comparisons. While alternatives like "to a smaller degree" or "not as much" exist, "to a lesser extent" offers a balance of formality and clarity suitable for diverse writing needs. When using this phrase, ensure a clear primary subject and avoid overuse to maintain impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to a smaller degree

Emphasizes the reduced quantity or degree.

to a reduced degree

Highlights the diminished level or intensity.

to a lower degree

Focuses on the comparatively inferior level or rank.

not as much

Simple and direct way to indicate less quantity or intensity.

to a more limited extent

Indicates restrictions or constraints on the degree.

in a minor way

Suggests a small or insignificant influence.

somewhat

A brief and informal way to indicate a slight difference.

relatively

Implies a comparison to something else.

in some measure

Suggests a partial or limited impact.

by comparison

Highlights a distinction in degree or amount.

FAQs

How do you use "to a lesser extent" in a sentence?

Use "to a lesser extent" to show that something is true, but not as much as something else. For example: "Dogs bark, and "to a lesser extent" cats meow."

What can I say instead of "to a lesser extent"?

You can use alternatives like "to a smaller degree", "to a reduced degree", or "not as much" depending on the context.

When should I use "to a lesser extent" versus "to a greater extent"?

Use "to a lesser extent" when you want to emphasize that something is happening or is true, but not as much as something else. Use "to a greater extent" when something is happening or is true more than something else.

Is "to a lesser extent" formal or informal?

"To a lesser extent" is generally considered suitable for both formal and informal writing, but it leans more towards neutral. The choice of alternative phrasing often depends on the specific context and desired tone. You could use "somewhat" or "relatively" for a more informal tone.