Reduce speed: meaning, definitions and examples

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reduce speed

 

[ rɪˈdjuːs spiːd ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

driving

To decrease the velocity at which a vehicle is moving.

Synonyms

decelerate, ease off, slow down.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reduce speed

This is a general phrase used when you need to make your vehicle go slower, often seen in traffic signs or safety instructions.

  • You should reduce speed when you see the school zone sign.
  • Drivers are advised to reduce speed due to foggy conditions.
slow down

This is the most common and conversational way to tell someone to decrease their speed. It can be used both literally for driving and metaphorically for action or progress.

  • You need to slow down; you're driving too fast!
  • She decided to slow down her work pace for better quality results.
decelerate

This is a more technical term, often used in formal contexts or when talking about scientific or mechanical aspects of slowing down.

  • The driver had to decelerate quickly to avoid the collision.
  • This technology helps the car decelerate smoothly.
ease off

This is a more casual phrase, often used when you want someone to gradually slow down, either in driving or with their efforts or actions.

  • He eased off the gas pedal as he approached the stop sign.
  • It's important to ease off the pressure when training to avoid injuries.

Examples of usage

  • You need to reduce speed before entering the school zone.
  • The driver was fined for failing to reduce speed at the intersection.
Context #2 | Noun

general

A decrease in the rate at which something is happening or progressing.

Synonyms

decrease in pace, diminution, slowing down.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reduce speed

Used when talking about slowing a vehicle or any moving object. Common in driving instructions or safety instructions.

  • You need to reduce speed when approaching a school zone.
  • The driver reduced speed to avoid the animal on the road.
slowing down

A general term that can be used in many contexts, including both physical and metaphorical slowing down. It is casual and easy to understand.

  • The car is slowing down as it approaches the traffic light.
  • After years of working nonstop, she is finally slowing down to enjoy life.
decrease in pace

Used when talking about slowing down in terms of progress, activity, or effort. Often used in contexts like work, sports, or any ongoing process.

  • There was a noticeable decrease in pace after the team changed their strategy.
  • As the marathon continued, runners began to show a decrease in pace.
diminution

A more formal term used in academic or professional contexts to refer to a reduction in size, amount, or importance. It often has a more general application than the other terms.

  • The report indicated a significant diminution of resources.
  • There has been a diminution in the influence of traditional media.

Examples of usage

  • The company implemented a plan to achieve a reduction in speed of production.
  • The sudden reduction in speed of economic growth caused concern among investors.

Translations

Translations of the word "reduce speed" in other languages:

🇵🇹 reduzir a velocidade

🇮🇳 गति कम करें

🇩🇪 Geschwindigkeit reduzieren

🇮🇩 kurangi kecepatan

🇺🇦 знизити швидкість

🇵🇱 zmniejszyć prędkość

🇯🇵 速度を落とす

🇫🇷 réduire la vitesse

🇪🇸 reducir la velocidad

🇹🇷 hızı azaltmak

🇰🇷 속도를 줄이다

🇸🇦 تقليل السرعة

🇨🇿 snížit rychlost

🇸🇰 znížiť rýchlosť

🇨🇳 减速

🇸🇮 zmanjšati hitrost

🇮🇸 draga úr hraða

🇰🇿 жылдамдықты азайту

🇬🇪 სიჩქარის შემცირება

🇦🇿 sürəti azaltmaq

🇲🇽 reducir la velocidad

Etymology

The term 'reduce speed' originated in the context of transportation in the early 20th century as a safety measure to prevent accidents and ensure smoother traffic flow. It has since been adopted in various fields to signify the act of slowing down or decreasing the pace of a process or activity. The importance of reducing speed is emphasized in modern times to promote safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability.