What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
downsizing
Example
The company is downsizing its workforce due to financial difficulties. [downsizing: present participle]
Example
The downsizing of the factory led to the closure of several departments. [downsizing: noun]
rationalization
Example
The company underwent a rationalization process to streamline its operations. [rationalization: noun]
Example
The manager rationalized the decision to cut costs by explaining the benefits to the company. [rationalized: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Downsizing is more commonly used than rationalization in everyday language, particularly in the context of employee layoffs. Rationalization is a more technical term that is often used in business and management contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between downsizing and rationalization?
Rationalization is generally considered a more formal term than downsizing, which is often used in casual or informal contexts.
