What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shrink
Example
The sweater shrank in the wash. [shrank: past tense]
Example
The company's profits have shrunk over the last quarter. [shrunk: verb]
Example
He tends to shrink away from confrontation. [shrink: verb]
diminish
Example
The impact of the pandemic has diminished the economy. [diminished: verb]
Example
The excitement of the event diminished as the day went on. [diminished: past participle]
Example
His rude behavior diminished his credibility. [diminish: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Diminish is more commonly used than shrink in everyday language, especially when referring to abstract concepts. Shrink is more specific and less versatile than diminish.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shrink and diminish?
Both shrink and diminish can be used in formal or informal contexts, but diminish is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations.
