Definitions and Examples of halve, reduce, decrease
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To divide something into two equal parts.
Example
She decided to halve the recipe because she didn't need that much food.
To make something smaller or less in size, amount, or degree.
Example
He wanted to reduce his carbon footprint by using public transportation instead of driving.
To become smaller or less in size, amount, or degree.
Example
The company had to decrease its workforce due to financial difficulties.
Key Differences: halve vs reduce vs decrease
- 1Halve is a specific term that describes dividing something into two equal parts.
- 2Reduce is a general term that describes making something smaller or less in size, amount, or degree.
- 3Decrease is a more passive term that describes something becoming smaller or less in size, amount, or degree.
Effective Usage of halve, reduce, decrease
- 1Mathematics: Use halve to describe dividing a number or quantity into two equal parts.
- 2Cooking: Use halve to describe dividing a recipe or ingredient into two equal parts.
- 3Business: Use reduce and decrease to describe cutting costs, expenses, or workforce.
Remember this!
The antonyms have distinct nuances: Halve describes dividing something into two equal parts, reduce is a general term for making something smaller, and decrease is a more passive term for something becoming smaller. Use these words in mathematics, cooking, and business contexts to convey the opposite meaning of increasing or making something larger.
