Lowering: meaning, definitions and examples

Duplicate entry. See the first 'lowering' entry above.

Broadly applicable in many contexts, from everyday language to technical and professional discussions, referring to making something smaller in size, amount, or number.

• They announced a reduction in the workforce due to budget cuts.
• A reduction in energy consumption can help combat climate change.

Common in both everyday language and professional contexts when discussing a general reduction in size, amount, or degree.

• There was a decrease in crime rates last year.
• The company reported a decrease in profits for the third quarter.

Often used in more formal contexts or when referring to the reduction in quality, importance, or size over time. Can have a slightly negative connotation.

• The constant criticism led to a diminishment of his confidence.
• There has been a noticeable diminishment in the quality of the service.

This word is used to describe the process of something decreasing in height, level, or value. It can be used in various contexts, including physical lowering of objects, economic conditions, or emotional states.

• The sudden lowering of the bar made the competition more challenging
• The CEO announced the lowering of prices to attract more customers

Erosion is commonly used in geology and environmental science to describe the gradual destruction or diminution of something by natural forces like wind, water, or ice.

• The coastline has experienced severe erosion due to the relentless waves
• Soil erosion is a significant problem for agricultural areas

Abrasion refers specifically to the process of scraping or wearing away due to friction. It is often used in geological contexts, but also in medical or material sciences.

• The constant abrasion of the rocks created smooth pebbles over time
• He suffered a minor abrasion on his knee after falling off the bike

Weathering refers to the breaking down of rocks, soil, and minerals through contact with the Earth's atmosphere, waters, and biological organisms. It can be chemical, physical, or biological.

• The ancient monuments exhibit signs of weathering due to centuries of exposure to the elements
• Weathering processes can create beautiful natural formations

Use this in situations where you're talking about bringing something down, like a physical object or level. It can also be used metaphorically for things like standards or expectations.

• The mechanic is lowering the car to the ground.
• They are lowering the standards for the exam.

This word is appropriate for talking about making something smaller or less in amount, degree, or size, commonly used in formal contexts like reducing waste or reducing risks.

• The city is reducing waste by encouraging recycling.
• He is working on reducing his weight.

Use this word when indicating a gradual decline over time, often measurable, like numbers, quantities, or rates.

• The temperature is decreasing as winter approaches.
• The population is decreasing due to emigration.

This word is often used when talking about removing or reducing something significantly, like costs, expenses, or parts of something.

• The company is cutting costs to save money.
• He's cutting the rope with a knife.