Diminution Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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diminution
[ˌdɪmɪˈnjuːʃən ]
Definitions
in music
Diminution refers to the shortening of the time values of notes in a melody, creating a faster tempo. It is often used as a decorative technique in music composition.
Synonyms
decrease, reduction, shortening.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| diminution |
More formal contexts, often used in literature or academic discussions to describe a process of becoming smaller or less significant.
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| shortening |
Specific contexts where something's length, duration, or extent is being reduced. Often used in physical or temporal changes.
|
| reduction |
Can be used in both formal and informal contexts to imply a lowering in quantity, degree, or size.
|
| decrease |
Everyday language to describe something becoming less in number or amount.
|
Examples of usage
- Her use of diminution in the piece added a sense of urgency to the music.
- The composer employed diminution to create a more lively and dynamic feel to the melody.
in legal context
Diminution can also refer to a decrease or reduction in the value of something, especially in a legal context. It is often used to describe a decrease in the value of property or assets.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| diminution |
Same as above; typically used in formal contexts or academic writing to describe a process of becoming smaller or less significant.
|
| decrease |
Commonly used in everyday language to talk about something becoming less in number or amount.
|
| loss |
Used when referring to the complete or partial absence of something that was once possessed, often in a negative or emotional context.
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| reduction |
Often used in both formal and informal settings to describe the act of making something smaller in size, amount, or degree.
|
Examples of usage
- The court ruled that there was a diminution in the value of the property due to the damages caused by the construction.
- The contract included clauses to protect against diminution of the company's assets.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Art and Music
- In music, 'diminution' refers to a technique where notes are divided into shorter values, adding embellishments to a melody.
- During the Renaissance period, musicians often used diminution to enhance the expressiveness of their compositions.
- In visual art, a diminution can occur when objects are drawn smaller as they recede into the background, affecting perception.
Psychology
- Studies show that perceived diminution of personal achievements can lead to lower self-esteem in individuals.
- Cognitive psychology suggests that the diminishing of past experiences can influence present attitudes and behaviors.
- Diminution can also describe the reduction in emotional responses over time, known as emotional dampening.
Economics
- In economic terms, diminution can refer to a decrease in market value or declining performance of an asset.
- The concept is often used when analyzing depreciation, where assets lose value over time.
- Diminution in value can affect investor confidence and market stability.
Literature
- In literature, characters may experience diminution in their status or power, affecting the plot and character development.
- Symbolism of diminution often reflects themes of loss and change within narratives.
- Authors may use the concept to demonstrate how small actions can lead to larger consequences in a story.
Origin of 'diminution'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'diminuere,' which means 'to lessen or diminish.'
- It entered the English language in the late 14th century, originally referring to reduction in size.
- The prefix 'di-' means 'apart,' indicating the act of separating or reducing something.
The word 'diminution' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old French word 'diminution' and the Latin word 'diminutio', both meaning a lessening or reduction. The term has been used in various contexts over the centuries, from music to law, to describe a decrease or shortening.
See also: diminish, diminished, diminishing, diminishment.