Finesentence logo

Retrench: meaning, definitions and examples

✂️
Add to dictionary

retrench

 

[ rɪˈtrɛnʧ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

cut costs

To retrench means to reduce or lessen something, especially by cutting back on expenses or resources. This term is often used in a business context when companies attempt to streamline operations and improve profitability by eliminating unnecessary costs. It can also refer to employee layoffs or downsizing to maintain financial stability. Retrenching can be a strategic response to economic pressures, allowing an organization to remain viable in challenging conditions.

Synonyms

conserve, cut back, downsize, reduce, trim

Examples of usage

  • The company decided to retrench after a significant drop in sales.
  • In order to stay afloat, management had to retrench and streamline operations.
  • They retrenched their budget to focus on essential projects.

Translations

Translations of the word "retrench" in other languages:

🇵🇹 reduzir

🇮🇳 कमी करना

🇩🇪 einschränken

🇮🇩 mengurangi

🇺🇦 скорочувати

🇵🇱 ograniczyć

🇯🇵 削減する

🇫🇷 réduire

🇪🇸 reducir

🇹🇷 kısma

🇰🇷 축소하다

🇸🇦 تخفيض

🇨🇿 omezit

🇸🇰 obmedziť

🇨🇳 缩减

🇸🇮 omejiti

🇮🇸 draga

🇰🇿 азайту

🇬🇪 შეკვეცვა

🇦🇿 azaltmaq

🇲🇽 reducir

Etymology

The word 'retrench' comes from the French term 'rétrancher', which is a compound of 're-' meaning 'back' and 'trancher' meaning 'to cut'. The term gained popularity in English during the early 18th century. Initially used to describe the act of cutting or reducing resources strategically, it has since evolved to encompass broader meanings in financial and organizational contexts. The concept of retrenchment is often associated with difficult economic times, prompting businesses and governments to reevaluate their spending and operational strategies. In modern usage, 'retrench' signifies not just the act of cutting back but also the need for careful consideration and planning to sustain necessary functions and services.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,966 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.