ENGLISH
REFERENCE

reduces

v.
B1 Intermediate US //ɹəˈdusəz// UK //ɹɪdjˈuːsɪz// re·duces

v. to make something smaller in size, amount, or number. You use this when you want to say there is less of something than before.

v. to make something smaller or less in amount, degree, or size. Transitive — requires a direct object to indicate what is being diminished.


SIMPLE

The new law reduces the cost of healthy food.

CONTEXTUAL

The chef reduces the sauce over low heat until it becomes thick and flavorful.

COMPLEX

Implementing energy-efficient lighting significantly reduces the building's overall carbon footprint while simultaneously lowering monthly operational costs for the management team.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

The verb is transitive and takes a direct object. It is often followed by the preposition 'by' to show the amount of change or 'to' to show the final result.

Pitfall

The price reduces.The price is reduced.While 'reduce' can be used intransitively in cooking (sauces), it is usually transitive; when the subject is the thing being made smaller, use the passive voice.

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