reduce
word
/ɹəˈdus/
ruh-DOOS
/ɹɪdjˈuːs/
ri-DYOOS
Definition
To make something smaller or less in amount, size, or degree.
Usage & Nuances
'Reduce' is used in both formal and informal language. Common phrases: 'reduce costs', 'reduce speed', 'reduce waste'. Often confused with 'decrease' (which usually means numbers go down on their own) while 'reduce' means someone makes it happen.
Spanish: reducir - disminuirPortuguese (BR): reduzir - diminuirPortuguese (PT): reduzir - diminuirChinese (Simplified): 减少 - 降低Chinese (Traditional): 減少 - 降低Hindi: कम करना - घटानाArabic: يقلل - يخفّضBengali: কমানো - হ্রাস করাRussian: уменьшать - сокращатьJapanese: 減らすVietnamese: giảmKorean: 줄이다Turkish: azaltmakUrdu: کم کرناIndonesian: mengurangi
Example Sentences
Please reduce the volume on the TV.
basic
We need to reduce our expenses.
basic
Turning off the lights when you leave can really reduce your electricity bill.
natural
Eating less sugar can reduce health risks.
basic
The company is trying to reduce waste by recycling more materials.
natural
If you want to lose weight, you need to reduce your calorie intake.
natural