Definition of Reduce
Quick Meaning of Reduce
To make something smaller or less; to decrease the amount or level of something.
Detailed Definition of Reduce
To make something smaller in size, amount, degree, or intensity.
How to Pronounce Reduce
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: re-DOOS or re-DYOOS. The 'u' sounds like 'oo' as in 'blue'.
Watch out: Some learners say 'RED-yoos' instead of 're-DYOOS' or confuse it with 'reduce' pronounced like 'reduce' in cooking.
Origin and Etymology of Reduce
From Latin 'reducere' meaning to lead back or bring back, from 're-' (back) and 'ducere' (to lead).
How to Use Reduce in a Sentence
Each example shows “reduce” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The store reduced prices by 25% during the holiday sale.”
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“We need to reduce carbon emissions to fight climate change.”
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“Drinking less coffee can reduce anxiety and sleep problems.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Reduce
Common Synonyms for Reduce
Smart Synonyms for Reduce — When to Use Each
- decrease
- for making something smaller in general
- lower
- for bringing down levels or costs
- minimize
- for reducing to the least amount possible
- diminish
- for gradually making something smaller or weaker
Common Collocations with Reduce
These phrases pair with “reduce” in everyday English:
- reduce costs
- reduce emissions
- reduce risk
- reduce pressure
Common Mistakes When Using Reduce
Even fluent speakers slip up with “reduce”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: They reduced the workers to 30 from 50.
- ✓ Correct: They reduced the number of workers from 50 to 30.
- Why: Use 'reduce from X to Y' to show the change clearly, not 'reduce X to Y'.
- ✗ Wrong: The goal is reducing pollution.
- ✓ Correct: The goal is to reduce pollution.
- Why: After 'is', use the infinitive 'to reduce' not the gerund 'reducing'.
Other Forms of Reduce
Frequently Asked Questions About Reduce
What is the meaning of "Reduce"?
To make something smaller or less; to decrease the amount or level of something.
How do you pronounce "Reduce"?
The IPA is /rɪˈdjuːs/. Stress the second syllable: re-DOOS or re-DYOOS. The 'u' sounds like 'oo' as in 'blue'.
What part of speech is "Reduce"?
"Reduce" is a verb at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Reduce"?
Common synonyms include decrease, lower, minimize.
How do you use "Reduce" in a sentence?
For example: "The store reduced prices by 25% during the holiday sale."