What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
derate
Example
The company decided to derate the production speed to avoid overproduction. [derate: verb]
Example
The derated engine produced less power but was more fuel-efficient. [derated: adjective]
decrease
Example
The government implemented policies to decrease the unemployment rate. [decrease: verb]
Example
There was a significant decrease in the number of tourists visiting the city. [decrease: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Decrease is more commonly used than derate in everyday language. Decrease is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts and situations, while derate is more technical and specific, and therefore less common in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between derate and decrease?
Derate is a more formal word than decrease, as it is often used in technical or engineering contexts. Decrease is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.