
Lessen
Action Oriented
Use 'lessen' when describing an intentional action to reduce something.

She took measures to lessen environmental damage.
Mitigate Effects
'Lessen' is often used when talking about making negative effects not as severe.

Wearing a helmet can lessen the chance of a head injury.
Progressive Change
Use 'lessen' to imply a gradual reduction over time, rather than immediate.

Her attention to detail lessened as she grew tired.
Compare with
CurtailCut downDecreaseDiminishLowMinimizeReduceTrim
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