C1verb2K

Minimize

UK /["/ˈmɪnɪmaɪz/","/ˈmɪnɪmaɪzɪz/","/ˈmɪnɪmaɪzd/","/ˈmɪnɪmaɪzɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈmɪnɪmaɪz/","/ˈmɪnɪmaɪzɪz/","/ˈmɪnɪmaɪzd/","/ˈmɪnɪmaɪzɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to reduce something, especially something bad, to the lowest possible level

In simple words: To make something as small as possible.

Examples

  • Good hygiene helps to minimize the risk of infection.
  • Costs were minimized by using plastic instead of leather.
  • The proposals are designed to minimize waste and encourage recycling.
  • measures to help minimize the effects of the recession
  • to pay the cheapest possible rent in order to minimize costs
  • They worked at night in order to minimize the disruption.
  • He always tried to minimize his own faults, while exaggerating those of others.
  • Minimize any windows you have open.

Usage notes

Use in both spoken and written English. It’s appropriate in academic and professional contexts but may feel overly technical in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

minimize + object

Memory hint

Think of 'mini' in 'minimize' — making things tiny like toy versions.

Collocations

  • minimize risks
  • minimize costs
  • minimize waste
  • minimize damage
  • minimize exposure

Synonyms

  • reduce
  • diminish
  • lessen
  • shrink
  • lower

Antonyms

  • maximize
  • increase

Common mistakes

  • 'Minimize' is sometimes confused with 'maximize' because of similar meanings.
  • Learners might forget to use the object, saying 'minimize' alone without specifying what is being minimized.
  • Using 'minimize' in informal situations where simpler words like 'reduce' would be better.