Word
diminishing
Phoneticsdi·min·ish·ing, stress on the second syllable
US/dɪˈmɪnɪʃɪŋ/
UK/dɪmˈɪnɪʃɪŋ/
Definitions
01becoming smaller or weaker
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. getting smaller in size, amount, or strength.
adj. describing a state of progressive reduction or decrease in magnitude, intensity, or importance.
“The hikers watched the sunset with diminishing hope of finding the trail before dark.”
“The company faced diminishing returns on its advertising spend, suggesting that the market had reached a point of total saturation.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
02a reduction
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Formal
n. the process of something becoming smaller.
n. the act or process of becoming less or smaller; a diminishment.
“The diminishing of his influence within the party happened very quickly.”
“The steady diminishing of natural resources in the region has led to significant economic instability for the local population.”
Usage
Often used with 'returns', 'light', or 'interest'.
Real-World Examples
“Experts have said the possibility of finding missing people alive in the tunnels is diminishing.” “As rescue efforts drag on, experts fear the chances of finding survivors in tunnels are diminishing as oxygen levels fall.” Idioms
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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