Diminution: meaning, definitions and examples

More formal contexts, often used in literature or academic discussions to describe a process of becoming smaller or less significant.

• The diminution of the population in rural areas is becoming a serious issue.

Specific contexts where something's length, duration, or extent is being reduced. Often used in physical or temporal changes.

• The shortening of daylight hours is a noticeable change as winter approaches.

Can be used in both formal and informal contexts to imply a lowering in quantity, degree, or size.

• The company announced a reduction in prices for their products.

Everyday language to describe something becoming less in number or amount.

• There has been a decrease in crime rates this year.

Same as above; typically used in formal contexts or academic writing to describe a process of becoming smaller or less significant.

• The diminution in rainfall this year has impacted the farmers
• Researchers noticed a gradual diminution in the species' population

Commonly used in everyday language to talk about something becoming less in number or amount.

• We saw a decrease in sales over the summer
• There has been a decrease in crime rates this year

Used when referring to the complete or partial absence of something that was once possessed, often in a negative or emotional context.

• The company suffered a significant loss due to the fire
• She felt a deep sense of loss after her friend's departure

Often used in both formal and informal settings to describe the act of making something smaller in size, amount, or degree.

• The doctor recommended a reduction in sugar intake
• There has been a reduction in the workforce to cut costs