Reduce

Definition

The term "reduce" describes the act of making something smaller, less, or of lower intensity.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈduːs/, /rɪˈdʒuːs/
• Respelling: ri-DOOS, ri-DJOOS

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈdjuːs/
• Respelling: ri-DYOOCE

Etymology

The word "reduce" originates from the Latin "reducere," meaning "to lead back" or "to bring back," derived from "re-" (back) and "ducere" (to lead). It entered Middle English through Old French "reduire."

Derivatives

• Reduction (noun)
• Reducer (noun)
• Reducible (adjective)
• Reduced (adjective)
• Reducing (adjective)

Synonyms

• Decrease
• Minimize
• Lower

Antonyms

• Increase
• Expand
• Enhance

Usage

The term "reduce" is commonly used in contexts such as environmental conservation, mathematics, and personal health. For example, "We need to reduce waste to protect the environment" or "She reduced her calorie intake to lose weight."

Related Terms

• Minimization: The act of reducing something to the smallest possible amount.
• Compression: Reducing size or volume.
• Optimization: The process of making something as effective or functional as possible.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To make smaller or less in amount, size, or intensity: Refers to diminishing the quantity, scope, or degree of something.
  • Example: "The company aims to reduce carbon emissions by 20%."
• To simplify or bring to a specific form: Refers to converting something into a simpler or smaller state.
  • Example: "The fractions were reduced to their simplest forms."
• To lower the rank, status, or worth of something: Refers to lessening value or importance.
  • Example: "The army was reduced to half its original size after the war."
• To cook a liquid by evaporation to thicken or concentrate it: Refers to culinary techniques of boiling down sauces or broths.
  • Example: "The chef reduced the sauce until it reached the desired consistency."