{# Single source of truth for the GA4 page_type dimension. Must stay ABOVE extra_head: synonymguide configures gtag inside that block and reads this global, while syllablesworld configures it at the end of . #}

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

deoxidize tighten trimback dilute shorten concentrate shrink oxidize subdue comedown slimdown oxidise expand thin bringdown boildown slenderize blowup trim decoct trimdown abridge loseweight contract quash 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.

Compare "reduce" with another word →

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

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words