English Reference

Word

minimizing

Phoneticsmin·i·miz·ing

/ˈmɪnəˌmaɪzɪŋ/

UK spelling · minimising

Definition

v. to make something as small as possible. You use this when you want to reduce a risk, a problem, or the size of a window on a computer screen.

v. reducing something to the smallest possible amount, degree, or size. Often refers to mitigating risks or decreasing the physical dimensions of a digital interface element.

Examples

“We are minimizing the risks by wearing safety gear.”

“The company is focusing on minimizing waste during the production process to save money and help the environment.”

“By diversifying their investment portfolio, the firm succeeded in minimizing exposure to market volatility while maintaining a steady growth rate throughout the fiscal year.”

Examples

simple

“We are minimizing the risks by wearing safety gear.”

contextual

“The company is focusing on minimizing waste during the production process to save money and help the environment.”

complex

“By diversifying their investment portfolio, the firm succeeded in minimizing exposure to market volatility while maintaining a steady growth rate throughout the fiscal year.”

Usage

Transitive — requires a direct object. Often used in the present continuous form to describe an ongoing effort to reduce something negative.

Pitfall

minimizing about the problem

minimizing the problem

Minimize is a transitive verb and does not take the preposition 'about'.

Real-World Examples

“Money and Mental Health, a charity, also blames the design of online shopping sites for "minimising the friction around spending money".”
BBC News · 27 Aug 2026
“Officials said other benefits of minimising outdoor lighting included lower carbon emissions and energy costs.”
BBC News · 14 Aug 2026

This entry

Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency
Frequent
Updated

Scan code

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English Reference