Diminishing: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when something is becoming less in quantity, importance, or intensity over time. It often implies a gradual reduction.

• His influence in the company is diminishing as he nears retirement.
• The interest in the old-fashioned music genre is diminishing among the younger generation.

This word is appropriate when referring to something that is becoming less in size, amount, number, or extent. It can be used in a more general sense without any negative implications.

• The number of participants in the event is decreasing every year.
• His interest in the project is decreasing as he gets more involved in other activities.

This word is suitable when referring to a downward trend or reduction in quality, importance, quantity, or power. It often suggests a continuous fall and can have a negative connotation.

• The region's economy has been declining for the past decade.
• The quality of the product has been declining since they changed the manufacturing process.

Choose this word when talking about actively making something smaller or less in amount, degree, or size. It usually implies a deliberate action.

• We are working on reducing the company's overhead costs.
• She is focusing on reducing her carbon footprint by using public transport.

Diminishing is typically used to describe something that is gradually getting smaller or less important over time.

• interest in the new game is quickly diminishing; the sun’s rays were diminishing as the evening approached

Decreasing can describe a general reduction in size, amount, or intensity. It is often used in a variety of professional or scientific contexts.

• the company's profits are decreasing each quarter; the number of participants is decreasing every year

Diminution is a more formal term that often appears in academic or legal settings. It refers to the reduction in the size, extent, or importance of something.

• the diminution of human rights in that country concerns many; investors are worried about the diminution of the company's market share