minimize
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
to make something as small as it can possibly be.
to reduce something to the smallest possible amount, extent, or degree.
Simple“The company is trying to minimize costs by using less packaging.”
In context“The new safety protocols were designed to minimize the risk of accidents during the construction of the high-rise bridge.”
UsageOften used in academic or professional contexts regarding risk, cost, or impact.
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
to treat something as if it is not important or serious.
to represent or estimate something at less than its true value or importance; to trivialize a concern or event.
Simple“You shouldn't minimize her feelings just because you don't agree with her.”
In context“Critics argued that the government's report attempted to minimize the environmental impact of the new industrial zone.”
SynonymsAntonyms - 03 B1 Intermediate
to hide a window on your computer screen without closing the program.
to reduce a graphical user interface window to an icon or a taskbar button without terminating the application.
Simple“I minimized the browser window so I could see the files on my desktop.”
In context“If you minimize the application while the update is running, it will continue to process in the background.”
UsageUsually takes a digital object like 'window', 'app', or 'program'.
Usage minimise difference · minimise effect · minimise impact
“The immediate proposal is designed to minimise that risk.”
“In turn, that positive self-image helps your brain minimize arousal killers such as stress and anxiety.”
From Latin minimus + -ize.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.