Meaning & Definition of word "Reduce"

Reduce

/rɪˈdjuːs/

1. To make smaller in size, amount, or degree.
- Example: We need to reduce the amount of plastic waste we produce.
2. To decrease in quantity or intensity.
- Example: The company aims to reduce emissions by 20% over the next five years.
3. To cause (something) to be less in size or importance.
- Example: The therapist helped her learn how to reduce her anxiety.
4. To simplify or condense; to bring to a more basic form.
- Example: He tried to reduce the complex problem into simpler parts.
5. To diminish or lessen; to decrease.
- Example: Eating healthy foods can help reduce the risk of various diseases.

From Latin 'reducere', meaning 'bring back'.

reduce to:

To simplify or condense something to its essential elements.

reduce the risk:

To lessen the chance of something undesirable occurring.

reduce costs:

To lower expenses in a budget.

reduction:

The act of making something smaller or less.

reductive:

Tending to reduce something, often oversimplifying.

reducible:

Capable of being reduced.

Meaning: Slim down

Example Sentence: I need to slim down before summer starts.

Meaning: Cut back

Example Sentence: We're going to cut back on expenses next month.