B2verb 2K

Decrease

🇬🇧 UK //dɪˈkriːs// 🇺🇸 US //dɪˈkriːs//

Meaning of Decrease

To make something less in amount, size, or degree.

In simple words: To make something smaller or lower.

Decrease in a sentence

• The government plans to decrease taxes next year.
• He tried to decrease his spending habits.
• As the temperature decreases, it becomes more comfortable outside.
• They hope to decrease the amount of waste generated by the factory.
• The medication helped to decrease her pain significantly.
• To improve health, it's essential to decrease sugar intake.

How to use Decrease

Use 'decrease' in formal and neutral contexts to describe reductions, such as in appetite or temperature.

Grammar pattern

decrease + object

Memory hint

Think of 'decrease' as 'de-crease' – like making a crease smaller.

Related words

Collocations with Decrease

• decrease in size
• decrease in temperature
• significantly decrease
• gradually decrease
• decrease the risk

Synonyms for Decrease

• reduce
• diminish
• lessen
• cut
• shrink

Opposites of Decrease

• increase
• rise
• augment

Common mistakes with Decrease

• Confusing 'decrease' with 'increase'.
• Using 'decrease' without an object, e.g. 'decrease' must have something to decrease.
• Incorrectly conjugating the verb in different tenses.

Frequently asked questions about Decrease

What does Decrease mean?

To make something smaller or lower.

What is the definition of Decrease?

To make something less in amount, size, or degree.

How do you use Decrease in a sentence?

The government plans to decrease taxes next year.

Can you give another example of Decrease?

He tried to decrease his spending habits.

What are synonyms for Decrease?

Common alternatives include reduce, diminish, lessen, cut, shrink.

What is the opposite of Decrease?

Opposite meanings include increase, rise, augment.

What words go with Decrease?

It commonly pairs with decrease in size, decrease in temperature, significantly decrease, gradually decrease, decrease the risk.

What are common mistakes when using Decrease?

Confusing 'decrease' with 'increase'. Using 'decrease' without an object, e.g. 'decrease' must have something to decrease. Incorrectly conjugating the verb in different tenses.

How do you pronounce Decrease?

US: //dɪˈkriːs//, UK: //dɪˈkriːs//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Decrease?

Use 'decrease' in formal and neutral contexts to describe reductions, such as in appetite or temperature.

What CEFR level is Decrease?

"Decrease" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.