# minimize

/ˈmɪnəˌmaɪz/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/minimize
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. to reduce to a minimum

verb · CEFR B2 · Academic

to make something as small as it can possibly be.

For teachers: to reduce something to the smallest possible amount, extent, or degree.

- The company is trying to minimize costs by using less packaging.
- The new safety protocols were designed to minimize the risk of accidents during the construction of the high-rise bridge.

Usage: Often used in academic or professional contexts regarding risk, cost, or impact.

### 2. to downplay or trivialize

verb · CEFR B2

to treat something as if it is not important or serious.

For teachers: to represent or estimate something at less than its true value or importance; to trivialize a concern or event.

- You shouldn't minimize her feelings just because you don't agree with her.
- Critics argued that the government's report attempted to minimize the environmental impact of the new industrial zone.

### 3. to hide a computer window

verb · CEFR B1

to hide a window on your computer screen without closing the program.

For teachers: to reduce a graphical user interface window to an icon or a taskbar button without terminating the application.

- I minimized the browser window so I could see the files on my desktop.
- If you minimize the application while the update is running, it will continue to process in the background.

Usage: Usually takes a digital object like 'window', 'app', or 'program'.

## Examples

- You should minimize the window to see your desktop.
- The company implemented new safety protocols to minimize the risk of accidents in the factory.
- While the spokesperson attempted to minimize the impact of the data breach, independent analysts suggested the long-term reputational damage could be substantial.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.