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reduce

Reduce (verb) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

verb

IPA:

/rɪˈdus/

What does reduce mean?

To make something smaller, decrease in size, quantity, or intensity.
"She decided to reduce her sugar intake for better health."

Detailed Meaning of Reduce

It involves diminishing or minimizing the amount, extent, or impact of something. When you reduce something, you are actively working to lessen its magnitude, scale, or importance. This can be done by cutting down the size or number of objects, quantities, or measurements. Reduction often implies simplification or streamlining, as well as the removal or elimination of unnecessary elements. It can also refer to diminishing the intensity, strength, or severity of something, such as reducing noise or reducing the risk of a particular outcome. Overall, to reduce is to actively engage in a process that leads to a decrease or lessening in some aspect or characteristic.

Example Sentences for Reduce

1. The company implemented cost-cutting measures to reduce expenses.
2. The new diet plan helped him reduce his weight by 10 pounds.
3. We need to reduce the amount of waste we generate to protect the environment.
4. The therapist suggested techniques to reduce stress and anxiety.
5. They installed energy-efficient appliances to reduce their electricity consumption.
6. The government implemented policies to reduce unemployment rates.

Origin and Etymology of Reduce

The verb 'reduce' traces its origins to the Latin word 'reducere,' which is a compound of 're-' (meaning 'back' or 'again') and 'ducere' (meaning 'to lead' or 'to bring'). In Latin, 'reducere' carried the sense of leading something back or bringing it to a previous state. Over time, this evolved into the modern English usage of 'reduce,' where it means to make something smaller or decrease in size, quantity, or intensity. The etymology of 'reduce' underscores the concept of leading or bringing something back to a diminished state or a lower level, reflecting its core meaning of diminishing or lessening something.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb reduce:

increase

expand

enlarge

diminish

Try Again!

Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Reduce

1. The teacher used visual aids to help reduce complex concepts into simpler explanations.
2. The athlete followed a strict training regimen to reduce their race time.
3. The medication helped reduce the symptoms of the common cold.
4. The team implemented strategies to reduce errors and improve productivity.
5. We need to reduce our energy consumption to save money.
6. Cutting back on sugar can help reduce your risk of diabetes.
7. They aim to reduce carbon emissions with green technology.
8. Reducing stress levels is crucial for overall well-being.
9. The company plans to reduce its workforce through layoffs.
10. Exercise can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
11. The chef wants to reduce the sauce for a thicker consistency.
12. We must reduce waste by recycling and reusing materials.
13. To lose weight, you should reduce calorie intake.
14. The government is working to reduce poverty rates.
15. Lowering the thermostat can reduce heating costs.
16. The medication can reduce inflammation and pain.
17. Let's reduce the noise level to avoid disturbing others.
18. Effective time management can reduce work-related stress.
19. The new policy aims to reduce plastic pollution.
20. Reducing screen time can improve sleep quality.
21. We need to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
22. To improve efficiency, we should reduce unnecessary steps.
23. Meditation can help reduce anxiety and promote calmness.
24. Using public transportation can reduce traffic congestion.