Reduction Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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reduction
[rɪˈdʌkʃn ]
Definitions
in mathematics
The action or fact of making a mathematical quantity smaller in size or amount.
Synonyms
cutback, decrease, diminution, lessening.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| reduction |
Formal settings or technical contexts, often used to describe changes in size, quantity, or amount when something is being made smaller or less.
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| decrease |
General use to talk about numbers, amounts, or rates going down. It is quite neutral and can be used in various contexts.
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| diminution |
More formal or literary, used to describe a gradual reduction in size, strength, or importance.
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| lessening |
Commonly used to describe a situation where the intensity or amount of something is being reduced, often in casual or conversational contexts.
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| cutback |
Often used in business or organizational settings, usually to indicate budget or resource reductions. It can have a negative connotation as it implies a reduction in something that was previously provided.
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Examples of usage
- The reduction of the equation to its simplest form is essential for solving it.
- The reduction of the data set helped in identifying the trend more clearly.
in economics
The amount by which something is reduced.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| reduction |
Formal settings, often used in business, academic, or scientific contexts to indicate a decrease in quantity, size, or amount.
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| decrease |
Neutral and versatile, suitable for a variety of contexts including general, academic, and scientific discussions to signify a reduction in amount or intensity.
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| cut |
More informal, commonly used in everyday conversation and often associated with financial or budgetary contexts.
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| slash |
Informal, often implies a dramatic or significant reduction, sometimes with a slight negative connotation due to its aggressive undertones.
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| lower |
Can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Often used when referring to reducing levels, amounts, heights, prices, or intensity.
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Examples of usage
- The reduction in prices led to an increase in sales.
- The reduction in taxes benefited the middle-income earners.
in size or amount
The action of making something smaller or less in amount.
Synonyms
contraction, decrease, diminution, shrinkage.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| reduction |
General use when quantity, size, or amount is being made smaller. Often used in financial, environmental, or operational contexts.
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| decrease |
General use for anything becoming less in quantity or size. Common in everyday language as well as formal contexts.
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| diminution |
A formal term for a reduction in size, importance, or strength. Often used in technical, legal, or academic contexts.
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| shrinkage |
Usually refers to something becoming smaller in size, especially in physical terms or in the context of loss, such as inventory shrinkage in retail.
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| contraction |
Used when something is becoming tighter or smaller, often in physical or economic contexts. Can also refer to the shortening of words like 'can't' for 'cannot'.
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Examples of usage
- The reduction in workforce was necessary to maintain profitability.
- The reduction in the size of the product packaging reduced shipping costs.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In chemistry, reduction refers to the gain of electrons in a chemical reaction, often linked with oxidation.
- The concept is crucial in energy contexts, such as reducing waste to improve efficiency in fuel consumption.
- In environmental science, reduction strategies are essential in aiming to lower carbon footprints.
Technology
- In computer science, reduction often means simplifying a problem to make it easier to solve.
- Data reduction techniques, like compression, minimize file sizes, improving storage and transfer speeds.
- In programming, reduction can refer to the process of summarizing data sets for analysis.
Psychology
- Cognitive reduction involves simplifying complex thoughts to make them easier to process and understand.
- In behavior analysis, reduction techniques can help decrease unwanted behaviors through reinforcement of positive actions.
- Stress reduction methods, including mindfulness and meditation, aim to decrease anxiety and promote well-being.
Economics
- In economics, reduction refers to lowering prices or costs to increase market competitiveness.
- Policies aimed at tax reduction are often designed to provide relief to individuals and businesses.
- Wage reduction can impact employee morale and is often a response to economic downturns.
Origin of 'reduction'
Main points about word origin
- Originates from the Latin word 'reductio', which means 'a bringing back' or 'a leading back'.
- The term has been in use in English since the 14th century, evolving in meaning over time.
- Related words like 'reduce' and 'reduced' share the same root and reflect the act of making less.
The word 'reduction' originated from the Latin word 'reductio', which means 'a leading back'. It has been used in various contexts such as mathematics, economics, and general size or amount reductions. The concept of reduction has been essential in problem-solving and optimization strategies throughout history.