Decreasing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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decreasing

[dɪˈkriːsɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

mathematics

Tending to become smaller or fewer in size, amount, intensity, or degree.

Synonyms

declining, diminishing, lowering, reducing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
decreasing	Used to describe a process where numbers, amounts, or levels are going down over time. The temperature is decreasing as we head into winter. The number of applicants is decreasing each year.
diminishing	Typically used when something is gradually becoming less or fewer, often implying a noticeable reduction; has a slightly negative tone. Our supplies are diminishing rapidly. The influence of traditional media is diminishing in the digital age.
declining	Often used to describe a downward trend, especially in health, business, or quality; can have a slightly negative connotation. His health has been declining since last year. The company's profits have been declining for three consecutive quarters.
reducing	A general term that applies to the act of making something smaller or less in amount, degree, or size. He is reducing his calorie intake to lose weight. They are reducing the workforce to cut costs.
lowering	Used when something is being moved to a lower position or reduced deliberately; often used in a physical or measurable sense. They are lowering the prices for the end-of-season sale. She lowered her voice to a whisper.

Examples of usage

The decreasing trend in sales over the past few months is concerning.
She noticed a decreasing number of attendees at the event each year.
The company experienced decreasing profits due to the economic downturn.
The temperature has been steadily decreasing as winter approaches.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

general

To make or become smaller or fewer in size, amount, intensity, or degree.

Synonyms

cut, diminish, lower, reduce.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
decreasing	Used to describe a general downward trend in numbers or quantities over time. The number of students enrolling in the course is decreasing every year The temperature is decreasing as winter approaches
reduce	Used to describe making something smaller or less in size, amount, or degree, often in a planned manner and across various contexts. They aim to reduce carbon emissions by 50% The doctor advised him to reduce his sugar intake
diminish	Used when something is becoming less important or less strong, usually over time. It can also have a negative connotation, implying a reduction to a less significant state. Her influence in the company is beginning to diminish The pain started to diminish after taking the medicine
lower	Used when describing the action of moving something to a lower level, both in physical and abstract senses. Often implies targeting a specific level or goal. The manager decided to lower the prices to attract more customers They need to lower the heat on the stove to prevent the food from burning
cut	Often used in contexts where deliberate action is taken to reduce something, such as budgets, costs, or jobs. The company had to cut its budget by 20% They are planning to cut 50 jobs due to the financial crisis

Examples of usage

They decided to decrease the prices to attract more customers.
If you decrease the volume, it will be more pleasant to listen to.
She was advised to decrease her sugar intake for better health.

Translations

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

Origin of 'decreasing'

The word 'decreasing' originates from the Middle English word 'decrecen', which came from the Old French word 'descroistre'. The term can be traced back to the Latin word 'decrescere', which means 'to grow less'. The concept of decrease has been a fundamental aspect of various fields, including mathematics, economics, and everyday language usage.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,368 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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5365 computation
5366 exit
5367 shifting
5368 decreasing
5369 sail
5370 fluctuations
5371 artillery
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