Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Reducible: meaning, definitions and examples

🔽
Add to dictionary

reducible

 

[rɪˈdjuːsəbl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in mathematics

Capable of being reduced or simplified to a simpler form.

Synonyms

simplifiable, simplistic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
reducible

Suitable for general usage, it means something that can be lessened or made smaller.

  • The price of the product is reducible during sales
  • The workload is reducible if we hire more staff
simplifiable

Used in mathematical or logical contexts to describe something that can be made simpler.

  • The algebraic expression x^2 - 4 is simplifiable to (x - 2)(x + 2)
  • The code is simplifiable by using a function
simplistic

Often has a negative connotation, suggesting that something is too simple and lacks complexity. Commonly used in critiques.

  • The plan was dismissed as too simplistic
  • The article offers a simplistic view of a complex issue

Examples of usage

  • This equation is reducible to a quadratic form.
  • The complex problem turned out to be reducible to a series of simpler tasks.
Context #2 | Adjective

in chemistry

Able to undergo reduction, the gain of electrons by one of the atoms in a molecule.

Synonyms

oxidizable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
reducible

This word is mainly used in scientific and technical contexts, particularly in chemistry, to describe a substance that can gain electrons or decrease in oxidation state. It can also refer to a problem or issue that can be simplified or minimized in some way.

  • Iron(III) oxide is reducible to iron in a blast furnace.
  • The complexity of the project is reducible with proper planning.
oxidizable

This term is also used in scientific contexts, particularly in chemistry, to describe a substance that can lose electrons or increase in oxidation state during a chemical reaction.

  • Hydrogen gas is highly oxidizable and can react explosively with oxygen.
  • The presence of oxidizable metals affects the battery’s performance.

Examples of usage

  • This compound is reducible under certain conditions.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term comes from the Latin 'reducere,' which means 'to lead back or bring back.'
  • The prefix 're-' suggests repetition or backward motion, while 'ducere' relates to leading or bringing.
  • Its usage in mathematical contexts has evolved since the late 19th century, referring specifically to simplifying expressions.

Mathematics

  • In algebra, a polynomial is reducible if it can be factored into lower-degree polynomials.
  • Understanding reducibility is crucial in number theory, particularly in analyzing prime numbers.
  • The concept also extends to linear algebra, where systems of equations can be simplified further.

Philosophy

  • The idea of reducibility is often discussed in metaphysics, particularly concerning the relationship between mind and body.
  • Philosophers analyze whether complex systems can be broken down into simpler, understandable parts.
  • This concept challenges the view of reductionism, which suggests everything can be explained by simpler components.

Science

  • In chemistry, substances are considered reducible if they can undergo reactions to form simpler compounds.
  • The principle of reducibility is essential in genetics, where traits can sometimes be simplified into dominant or recessive patterns.
  • In physics, discussions on fundamental particles often focus on determining if complex particles can be reduced to elementary particles.

Literature

  • Authors often explore themes of reducibility in their narratives, reflecting on how characters or plots can be simplified.
  • This concept appears in modern literature, where plotlines may be reduced to archetypes or essential conflicts.
  • In poetry, the power of language is sometimes showcased by reducibility, stripping sentences to their core emotions.

Translations

Translations of the word "reducible" in other languages:

🇵🇹 reduzível

🇮🇳 घटाने योग्य

🇩🇪 reduzierbar

🇮🇩 dapat dikurangi

🇺🇦 скорочуваний

🇵🇱 redukowalny

🇯🇵 還元可能な

🇫🇷 réductible

🇪🇸 reducible

🇹🇷 indirgenebilir

🇰🇷 줄일 수 있는

🇸🇦 قابل للتخفيض

🇨🇿 redukovatelný

🇸🇰 redukovateľný

🇨🇳 可约简的

🇸🇮 zmanjšljiv

🇮🇸 minnanlegt

🇰🇿 қысқартуға болатын

🇬🇪 შემცირებადი

🇦🇿 azaldıla bilən

🇲🇽 reducible

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,724, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.