decrease (A2)

verb, noun

Pronunciation: /dɪˈkriːs/

Definition

To become smaller or fewer in size, amount, or degree.

Examples

• The company's profits decreased significantly last quarter.

• We saw a decrease in the population of the town.

• The doctor advised him to decrease his sugar intake.

How to Use decrease

decrease by (prepositional phrase)

To reduce by a specific amount. — "The price of the stock decreased by 10%."

decrease to (prepositional phrase)

To reduce to a specific level or amount. — "The number of visitors decreased to just a handful."

decrease in (prepositional phrase)

To reduce in a particular area or aspect. — "We've seen a decrease in crime in this neighborhood."

Synonyms of decrease

Words with a similar meaning to decrease:

• reduce
• lessen
• diminish
• decline

Antonyms of decrease

Words with the opposite meaning to decrease:

• increase
• grow

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