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Decrease Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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decrease

[dษชหˆkriหs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in economics

To decrease means to become smaller in size, amount, intensity, or degree. It is the opposite of increase.

Synonyms

diminish, lessen, lower, reduce.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
decrease

Use 'decrease' in general contexts where numbers or amounts are getting smaller.

  • The temperature will start to decrease tonight.
  • Sales have decreased by 10% this month.
reduce

Use 'reduce' when making something smaller or less in amount, degree, or size, often in a deliberate or controlled way.

  • We need to reduce our expenses to save money.
  • The chef will reduce the sauce to enhance its flavor.
diminish

Use 'diminish' when suggesting a reduction in size, importance, or intensity over time. It often carries a slightly negative connotation.

  • The noise will diminish as you move away from the city center.
  • The new evidence may diminish his credibility.
lower

Use 'lower' when talking about making something less high, less intense, or less in value or quantity.

  • You should lower your voice in the library.
  • The company plans to lower the prices next month.
lessen

Use 'lessen' when describing a reduction in intensity, severity, or impact. Often applied to feelings or conditions.

  • Painkillers can help lessen the pain.
  • His anger began to lessen over time.

Examples of usage

  • The company decided to decrease its production output due to a decrease in demand.
  • If we decrease our spending, we can save more money for the future.
Context #2 | Noun

mathematics

In mathematics, a decrease is a negative change in a variable's value.

Synonyms

decline, drop, reduction.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
decrease

Generally used to talk about a reduction in quantity, size, or intensity. It's neutral in tone and suitable for all contexts.

  • There was a decrease in the number of students enrolling this year.
  • To decrease expenses, the company decided to cut down on marketing costs.
reduction

Typically used in more formal or technical contexts. It denotes a deliberate act of making something smaller or less in amount, degree, or size.

  • The company is focusing on the reduction of carbon emissions.
  • Weight reduction programs have become very popular this year.
drop

Commonly used in informal or everyday contexts to describe a sudden reduction or fall. It may suggest a sharp or unexpected decrease.

  • The temperature is expected to drop significantly tonight.
  • There was a sudden drop in sales after the holiday season.
decline

Often used to describe a downward trend over time. It can also imply deterioration or weakening, usually in a more serious or negative context.

  • The decline in health of the patient was noticeable over the last few weeks.
  • There has been a steady decline in the use of fossil fuels in recent years.

Examples of usage

  • The decrease in the value of the stock market index caused panic among investors.
  • The decrease in temperature was significant, leading to snowfall in the region.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'decrease'

The word 'decrease' originated from the Old French word 'descroistre' which means 'to diminish'. It has been used in the English language since the late 14th century. The concept of decrease has been fundamental in various fields such as economics, mathematics, and everyday life, where the understanding of reduction or negative change is crucial.

See also: crease, creased, creasing, increase.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,843, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.