What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
decrease
Example
The company decided to decrease its production due to low demand. [decrease: verb]
Example
There was a decrease in the number of visitors to the museum this year. [decrease: noun]
diminish
Example
The impact of the new policy will diminish over time. [diminish: verb]
Example
The significance of his achievements has diminished over the years. [diminished: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Decrease is more commonly used than diminish in everyday language, and it is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts. Diminish is less common and is typically used in academic or professional contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between decrease and diminish?
Diminish is more formal than decrease and is often used in academic or professional contexts. Decrease is a more neutral term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
