to lessen this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to lessen this" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of reducing or diminishing something, typically in a context where you want to alleviate a problem or situation. Example: "We need to find a way to lessen this burden on our team to improve overall productivity."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

A vaccine is urgently needed to lessen this global burden.

European Journal of Pharmacology

To lessen this effect, it may help to take stock of such feelings as they arise and consider their source.

Harvard University

Some past studies have hinted that exercising while cutting calories might help to lessen this muscle loss.

The New York Times - Health

The compromise 2011 budget makes major cuts in clean energy programs designed to lessen this country's dependence on fossil fuels.

The New York Times

Although recent measures have occurred to lessen this (doctor pressure, not NHS initiatives), many doctors are still frequently working a continuous 24-hour stretch.

The Guardian

Such is the local dedication to the Navy that its interests figure even in plans to lessen this dependence on Department of Defense appropriations.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

Mission statements are crucial to lessening this possibility for catastrophe.

Forbes

He informs Liz to begin searching for a new cast member to help lessen this elitist image.

Wikipedia

In "Season 4", the season premiere episode, Jack explains that the show's staff have become too elitist and need to change to survive in tough economic times, and informs Liz to begin searching for a new cast member to help lessen this elitist image.

Wikipedia

To help lessen this, give yourself a massage applying light pressure to your stomach.

WikiHow

This August, to help lessen this systemic problem, Exploring the Metropolis will launch a free interactive Web site clearinghouse called www.nycmusicplaces.org.org

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to lessen this", ensure that the context clearly identifies what "this" refers to, avoiding ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "to lessen this" without a clear antecedent. Always make sure the reader knows exactly what "this" refers to. Otherwise, the sentence becomes confusing and ineffective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to lessen this" primarily functions as an infinitive phrase indicating purpose. As seen in Ludwig, it connects an action with the intention of reducing or mitigating something previously mentioned. The Ludwig AI states that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

35%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to lessen this" is a versatile phrase used to express the intention of reducing or mitigating a previously identified problem. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. While appropriate for both formal and informal writing, clarity is paramount; ensure that "this" has a clear antecedent to avoid ambiguity. Consider using alternatives like "to mitigate this" or "to alleviate this" for subtle differences in nuance. With its frequent occurrence in science and news media, mastering its use can enhance your writing's precision and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to mitigate this

Replaces "lessen" with "mitigate", implying a reduction in severity.

to alleviate this

Substitutes "lessen" with "alleviate", suggesting relief from a burden or problem.

to reduce this

Uses "reduce" in place of "lessen", indicating a decrease in quantity or intensity.

to diminish this

Employs "diminish" instead of "lessen", implying a gradual decrease.

to minimize this

Replaces "lessen" with "minimize", aiming to reduce something to the smallest possible amount.

to decrease this

Uses "decrease" instead of "lessen", suggesting a reduction in size, amount, or intensity.

to curtail this

Substitutes "lessen" with "curtail", meaning to reduce or restrict something.

to abate this

Replaces "lessen" with "abate", implying a reduction in intensity or degree.

to ease this

Uses "ease" instead of "lessen", suggesting making something less severe or difficult.

to soften this

Substitutes "lessen" with "soften", meaning to make something less harsh or severe.

FAQs

How can I use "to lessen this" in a sentence?

Use "to lessen this" to introduce an action intended to reduce or mitigate a problem previously mentioned. For example, "Heavy rainfall could bring treacherous mudslides, so officials have authorized the installation of fencing and sandbags "to lessen this" potential threat."

What's a good alternative for "to lessen this"?

You can replace "to lessen this" with phrases like "to mitigate this", "to alleviate this", or "to reduce this", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "to lessen this" formal or informal?

"To lessen this" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its neutrality allows for use across diverse writings, from academic papers to news reports.

What's the difference between "to lessen this" and "to reduce this"?

While both phrases are similar, "to lessen this" implies a gradual reduction, whereas "to reduce this" can suggest a more immediate or substantial decrease. The choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.