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Pronunciation Comparison
🔊 Homophones: 100% Identical Pronunciation (⁄ˈlɛsən⁄)

How to Pronounce lessen vs lesson

Key Pronunciation Contrast

"lessen" and "lesson" are exact English homophones with 100% identical phonetic pronunciation (⁄ˈlɛsən⁄). They share the exact same sound from start to finish but differ in spelling, origin, and meaning.

Word 1Full word page➔

lessen

⁄ˈlɛs.ən⁄

Syllables

LES·sen

Definition:

To make less; to diminish; to reduce.

“a. 1686, Benjamin Calamy, a sermon Charity […] shall lessen his punishment.”
Word 2Full word page➔

lesson

⁄ˈlɛs.ən⁄

Syllables

LES·son

Definition:

To instruct to teach.

“And you, my sister—you, who lesson me on endurance, your cheek is pale, and your step languid; even with you, how much has life lost its interest!”

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Frequently Asked Questions: lessen vs lesson

What is the difference in pronunciation between "lessen" and "lesson"?

"lessen" and "lesson" are exact English homophones with 100% identical phonetic pronunciation (⁄ˈlɛsən⁄). They share the exact same sound from start to finish but differ in spelling, origin, and meaning.

Where does the syllable stress fall in "lessen" vs "lesson"?

"lessen" has 2 syllable(s) (les · sen) with stress on "LES". "lesson" has 2 syllable(s) (les · son) with stress on "LES".

Why do English learners often confuse "lessen" and "lesson"?

These words share similar consonant frameworks and vowel lengths, making them difficult for non-native speakers to distinguish without back-to-back ear training.

What are example sentences for "lessen" and "lesson"?

Example for "lessen": "a. 1686, Benjamin Calamy, a sermon Charity […] shall lessen his punishment." Example for "lesson": "And you, my sister—you, who lesson me on endurance, your cheek is pale, and your step languid; even with you, how much has life lost its interest!"