Synonyms for

Reduce

Verb / rʌˈdu:s / / rɪˈdu:s / / ri:ˈdu:s / Another word for reduce — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To make something smaller or less in amount, degree, or size.

Synonyms & similar words

thinout abridge loseweight slim subdue oxidise comedown meltoff cut decoct gain concentrate thin abbreviate contract tighten keepdown subjugate foreshorten scaledown shrink blowup dilute bringdown expand decrease diminish lower minimize lessen curtail shrink condense compress abridge truncate dwindle downsize mitigate moderate alleviate assuage ease

Synonyms by register

Formal

diminish lessen decrease curtail

Informal

cut down scale back tone down bring down

Literary

abate wane

Antonyms

increase expand enlarge augment multiply grow develop

Common collocations

  • reduce the risk
  • reduce the cost
  • reduce the impact
  • reduce the size
  • reduce the amount
  • reduce speed
  • reduce emissions

Word family

noun reduction
verb reduce
adjective reductive
adverb reductively

Usage note

Often used with 'to' to indicate the resulting state or quantity, e.g., 'reduce to ashes'. Be mindful of the context; 'reduce' can sometimes imply a negative consequence.

Example sentences

  1. I need to reduce the amount of junk food I eat to be healthier.
  2. The teacher will reduce the homework for the weekend.
  3. We should reduce our carbon footprint to help the environment.
  4. The company will reduce the number of employees to save money.
  5. You can reduce the size of the shirt by washing it in hot water.

Quotes

  • The most important thing to do if you find yourself in a hole is to stop digging. - Will Rogers
  • The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak. - Hans Hofmann
  • Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. - Leonardo da Vinci

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