Less, Lesser, and Least

Hi guys, how are you doing? Recently a student of mine asked me the meaning of lesser, and when to use it.

The word "less" and all of its conjugates should be used when discussing amounts that are grouped in a way as to be uncountable by traditional means. For example, "less sugar" or "less money," "fewer grains of sugar" or "fewer dollars." 

According to the Merriam Webster:

Less·er \ˈle-sər\ . adjective

: of smaller size

: of less strength, quality, or importance

Full Definition of LESSER

comparative of  little

:  of less size, quality, degree, or significance :  of lower status 

Examples of LESSER
1 The winner will receive $100; lesser amounts will be given to three runners-up.
2 A lesser man than he might have simply given up.
3 She agreed to plead guilty to a lesser charge.

Related to LESSER

Synonyms

inferior, junior, less, lower, minor, smaller, subordinate

Antonyms

greater, higher, major, more, primary, prime, senior, superior

Lesser OR Least?
Lesser means "beneath." I. e., "A lesser position" or "lesser than that." 

"Least" means "the lowest," I. e., "The least favorable table" or "the least wanted position."

"Lesser" can stand alone, but "least" requires clarification.

The comic strip below is from 1988, but still very accurate:

Speechyard

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Azar Grammar

Teachers meetings are not always painful. Last Tuesday in a teachers meeting, my coworkers Kátia Barella, whose English knowledge and desire to learn more are indubitable, suggested a website mainly designed for teachers, but that can also be used by students at all levels of English. 

azargrammar.com is surely a powerful tool with free sources for teaching and learning. Betty Azar is the author of this amazing website, and as all great thinkers and language collaborators, she proposes an exchange among English teachers spread worldwide. 

After being blessed with such an amazing tip, I feel pleased in sharing with you all.

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Hope you enjoy...and pay it forward!