What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
minimize
Example
We need to minimize our expenses to save money. [minimize: verb]
Example
The company tried to minimize the impact of the scandal on their reputation. [minimize: verb]
diminish
Example
The storm caused the water level in the lake to diminish. [diminish: verb]
Example
The new policy diminished the employees' benefits. [diminished: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Minimize is more commonly used than diminish in everyday language, especially in the context of avoiding or mitigating negative consequences.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between minimize and diminish?
Both minimize and diminish are formal words that can be used in academic or professional contexts.