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Reducing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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reducing

[rɪˈdjuːsɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

process of making something smaller

Reducing is the act of making something smaller in size, amount, or number. It can refer to minimizing the quantity or extent of something, such as reducing waste, reducing expenses, or reducing the number of employees in a company.

Synonyms

decreasing, diminishing, minimizing.

Examples of usage

  • Reducing waste is essential for environmental sustainability.
  • The government is focusing on reducing public spending.
  • She is reducing her workload by delegating tasks to others.
Context #2 | Verb

mathematical operation

In mathematics, reducing refers to simplifying a fraction or an expression by dividing all its terms by a common factor. It is a process of finding the equivalent form of a fraction or an equation in its simplest terms.

Synonyms

simplifying, solving, streamlining.

Examples of usage

  • She reduced the fraction 4/8 to 1/2 by dividing both the numerator and denominator by 4.
  • Reducing the equation to its simplest form helped in solving the problem efficiently.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In chemistry, reducing refers to the process where a substance gains electrons, often resulting in a decrease in oxidation state.
  • Reducing agents are important in many chemical reactions, such as those involved in batteries and metabolic processes.

Environmental Studies

  • Reducing waste is a key part of sustainability practices to minimize environmental impact.
  • Programs promoting reducing waste often use the motto 'Reduce, Reuse, Recycle' to encourage lower consumption levels.

Health and Wellness

  • Reducing calorie intake is a common method for weight loss and improving overall health.
  • Mental health practices often involve reducing stress through mindfulness and relaxation techniques.

Literature

  • Many authors use the theme of reducing to explore characters' emotional depth, where they must let go of their pasts.
  • In poetry, reducing complex ideas into simple images can create powerful imagery and resonance.

Origin of 'reducing'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'reducere', which means to lead back or bring back.
  • It has been used in English since the late 14th century, mostly in the context of bringing something to a lower state.

The word 'reducing' comes from the Old French word 'reduire', which means 'to bring back'. It has evolved over time to encompass the meaning of making something smaller or simpler. The concept of reducing has been applied in various fields, from mathematics to environmental conservation, highlighting the importance of efficiency and sustainability.

See also: reduced, reducer, reducible, reduction.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,485, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.