What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
downsize
Example
The company had to downsize due to financial difficulties. [downsize: verb]
Example
After the kids moved out, we decided to downsize our home. [downsize: verb]
reduce
Example
We need to reduce our carbon footprint to help the environment. [reduce: verb]
Example
Taking a break can help reduce stress levels. [reduce: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reduce is more commonly used than downsize in everyday language. Reduce is a versatile word that can be used in many different contexts, while downsize is more specific and often used in professional or business settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between downsize and reduce?
Downsize is generally considered more formal than reduce. It is often used in professional or business contexts to describe significant changes or cutbacks, while reduce can be used in both formal and informal contexts to describe a variety of changes or decreases.