Decrease vs. Lessen

Attribute	Decrease	Lessen
Definition	To make something smaller in size, amount, or degree	To make something smaller or reduce in intensity
Synonyms	Reduce, diminish, lower	Diminish, decrease, reduce
Opposite	Increase	Increase
Usage	Commonly used in formal contexts	Commonly used in everyday language

Definition

Decrease and lessen are two words that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have slightly different meanings. Decrease typically refers to a reduction in quantity or size, while lessen refers to a reduction in degree or intensity. For example, if you decrease the amount of sugar in a recipe, you are reducing the quantity of sugar used. On the other hand, if you lessen the amount of salt in a dish, you are reducing the intensity of the salt flavor.

Usage

Decrease is often used in a more formal or technical context, such as in scientific research or financial reports. It is a precise term that is used to indicate a specific reduction in something. Lessen, on the other hand, is a more casual term that is often used in everyday conversation. It is used to indicate a general decrease in something without specifying the exact amount or degree of reduction.

Impact

When something decreases, it typically has a more significant impact than when it lessens. For example, if a company's profits decrease, it means that the profits have gone down by a substantial amount. On the other hand, if a company's expenses lessen, it means that the expenses have been reduced, but not necessarily by a large amount. Decrease often implies a more drastic change than lessen.

Connotation

Decrease tends to have a more negative connotation than lessen. When something decreases, it is often seen as a loss or a decline. For example, a decrease in sales can be seen as a negative outcome for a business. Lessen, on the other hand, can have a more neutral connotation. When something lessens, it is simply being reduced in some way, without necessarily implying a negative outcome.

Examples

Here are some examples to illustrate the difference between decrease and lessen:

• Decrease: The temperature decreased by 10 degrees overnight.
• Lessen: Adding more cream to the sauce will lessen the spiciness.
• Decrease: The company's stock price decreased by 20% after the earnings report.
• Lessen: Taking a break can lessen the stress of a busy workday.

Conclusion

While decrease and lessen are often used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings and connotations. Decrease typically refers to a specific reduction in quantity or size, while lessen refers to a reduction in degree or intensity. Decrease tends to have a more negative connotation and is often used in formal contexts, while lessen is more casual and neutral. Understanding the differences between these two words can help you communicate more effectively and accurately in various situations.