IELTS Vocabulary: Mastering the Word ‘Lesser’
Improve your IELTS score by learning to use ‘lesser’ correctly. This video covers the meaning, usage, and common mistakes associated with this comparative adjective, helping you enhance your language precision for the exam.
Mastering nuanced vocabulary is crucial for achieving a high band score in IELTS. Today, we’re focusing on the word lesser, a comparative adjective that can significantly enhance your language precision.
Word type: Lesser functions primarily as a comparative adjective.
Meaning: Lesser means smaller in size, amount, degree, importance, or quality when compared to something else.
It’s often used to describe something as inferior or less significant.
Word history: The word lesser originates from Old English læssa, meaning smaller or fewer.
It’s a comparative form of little, which has been in use since before the twelfth century.
Antonyms: Some antonyms of lesser include greater, larger, bigger, more significant, and superior.
Synonyms: Synonyms for lesser include smaller, minor, subordinate, inferior, and secondary.
Examples use in sentences:
In environmental studies, lesser developed countries often face greater challenges in implementing sustainable practices.
The lesser known consequences of climate change can sometimes have the most significant long-term impacts.
Although often overlooked, lesser populated areas play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity. The lesser of two evils is still not an ideal choice, but it’s sometimes necessary in complex decision-making processes.
Common errors in use: A common mistake is using lesser when less would be more appropriate. For instance, it’s incorrect to say There are lesser people at the event today.
Instead, use There are fewer people at the event today. Another error is using lesser in place of least.
For example, This is the lesser expensive option is incorrect. The correct form would be This is the least expensive option.
Remember, lesser is a comparative form, so it’s used when comparing two things, not among three or more.
To excel in your IELTS exam, incorporate lesser into your vocabulary when making nuanced comparisons.
Use it to discuss relative importance, size, or significance across various topics like environment, society, or economics.
By mastering words like lesser, you’ll demonstrate the precise and sophisticated language use that examiners look for in high-scoring responses.
