B2noun2K

Reduction

UK /["/rɪˈdʌkʃn/"]/US /["/rɪˈdʌkʃn/"]/

Definition

an act of making something less or smaller; the state of being made less or smaller

In simple words: Making something smaller or less in amount.

Examples

The reduction in noise levels has made the city much more pleasant to live in.
The scientist proposed a significant reduction of waste materials in the manufacturing process.
After the reduction of prices, many customers flocked to the store.
The government announced a reduction in tax rates to stimulate the economy.
The organization's aim is the reduction of poverty in rural areas.
He argued that reduction of regulations could benefit small businesses.
The reduction of fat in this recipe makes it a healthier option.
The reduction in funding has led to staff layoffs in several departments.

Usage notes

Commonly used in discussions about economics, health, and environmental policies. Less suitable in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

reduction + of + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'reduce' — if you reduce something, there's a reduction.

Collocations

big
considerable
great
achieve
make
secure
occur
take place
target
through a/the reduction
reduction by
reduction from
a reduction in numbers
a reduction in the amount of something
a reduction in the number of something
big
considerable
great
achieve
make
secure
occur
take place
target
through a/the reduction
reduction by
reduction from
a reduction in numbers
a reduction in the amount of something
a reduction in the number of something

Synonyms

decrease
diminution
cut
lessening
decline

Antonyms

increase
addition
expansion

Common mistakes

Confusing 'reduction' with 'deduction'.
Using 'reduction' as a verb instead of a noun.
Omitting the preposition when saying 'reduction of'.