Decreased: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when referring to a general reduction in quantity, size, or value over time.

• The temperature has decreased since yesterday
• Profits decreased after the new regulations were implemented

Commonly used in various contexts to express making something smaller or less in amount, size, or importance; often used in instructions, warnings, or plans.

• We need to reduce our expenses to stay within budget
• Recycling helps to reduce waste and conserve resources

This word often implies a reduction in importance, value, or size, sometimes gradually or subtly.

• The noise began to diminish as the night went on
• His influence in the company has diminished over the years

Suitable for describing a reduction in amount, degree, or severity, particularly when expressing relief from an unwanted condition.

• Medication can lessen the symptoms of the illness
• They took measures to lessen the impact of the economic crisis

Most appropriate when reducing levels, prices, or positions, often following a deliberate action.

• The company decided to lower the prices of their products
• She lowered her voice to a whisper

This word is most commonly used in general contexts, often to show a reduction in amount, size, number, or intensity. It is neutral and can be used in various situations such as business, science, health, and daily life.

• The population of the town has decreased significantly
• The temperature decreased overnight

This word is often used in economic or financial contexts to indicate a reduction in the worth or value of something, especially currency. It carries negative connotations because it suggests a loss of value.

• The currency was devalued by 10% last year
• Her contributions were devalued by the management

Used primarily in formal or business settings to indicate a reduction in rank, position, or quality. It can also have negative connotations as it implies moving to a lower status or quality.

• The credit rating agency decided to downgrade the company’s rating
• After the incident, his job title was downgraded

This word is used to describe a loss of strength, power, or ability. It can be used in both literal and figurative contexts and often has a negative connotation.

• The illness has weakened him significantly
• The argument weakens their case

Used when talking about a reduction in size, amount, or intensity of something over a period of time.

• The population of the city has decreased by 20% in the last decade.
• The temperature decreased significantly after the storm.

Often used to describe a gradual loss of strength, quality, or importance. It can also refer to a polite refusal.

• There has been a decline in the quality of air in the city.
• The company faced a sharp decline in profits last year.
• She politely declined the invitation to the party.

Used to describe something that is becoming progressively worse, often in terms of health, conditions, or relationships. Usually carries a negative connotation.

• The patient's condition started to deteriorate rapidly.
• The neglected building has deteriorated over the years.
• Their friendship began to deteriorate after the argument.

Refers to something that is decreasing in power, importance, or influence. It can also describe the gradual reduction of the moon's visible illuminated part.

• His influence in the company is on the wane.
• Public interest in the issue has begun to wane.
• The moon wanes after it is full.