What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
decrease
Example
The company saw a decrease in profits this quarter. [decrease: noun]
Example
We need to decrease our expenses to stay within budget. [decrease: verb]
lower
Example
Please lower your voice, people are trying to work. [lower: verb]
Example
The government decided to lower taxes for low-income families. [lower: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lower is more commonly used than decrease in everyday language, especially in informal contexts. Decrease is more commonly used in technical or academic writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between decrease and lower?
Decrease is more formal than lower and is often used in technical or academic writing. Lower is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
