reduce

/ɹɪdjˈuːs/

/ɹəˈdus/, /ɹiˈdus/, /ɹɪˈdus/

[verb]

to reduce

[VERB]

MAIN VERB

to make something less or smaller in amount, degree, price, etc.

synonyms : bring down

to become less in size or amount

synonyms : shrink

make less complex

bring to humbler or weaker state or condition

be the essential element

synonyms : boil down

come down

lower in grade or rank or force somebody into an undignified situation

simplify the form of a mathematical equation of expression by substituting one term for another

narrow or limit

synonyms : tighten

to remove oxygen from a compound, or cause to react with hydrogen or form a hydride, or to undergo an increase in the number of electrons

synonyms : deoxidise

deoxidize

antonyms : oxidize

make smaller

synonyms : scale down

antonyms : blow up

lessen and make more modest

take off weight

synonyms : melt off

antonyms : gain

cook until very little liquid is left

synonyms : boil down

concentrate

reduce in scope while retaining essential elements

synonyms : abbreviate

antonyms : elaborate

lessen the strength or flavor of a solution or mixture

synonyms : cut

dilute

thin

thin out

be cooked until very little liquid is left

synonyms : boil down

concentrate

decoct

destress and thus weaken a sound when pronouncing it

undergo meiosis

reposition (a broken bone after surgery) back to its normal site

put down by force or intimidation

synonyms : keep down

Examples

1. A healthy diet and regular exercise can reduce the risk of many diseases.

2. the company's new policy purports to reduce its carbon footprint.

3. You can reduce the bitterness of sour gourd by soaking it in saltwater before cooking.

4. The heavy rain created a thick curtain of water, reducing visibility on the road.

Nearby words