Top 66 Slang For Reduction – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to expressing the act of reducing something in a cool and trendy way, slang for reduction has got you covered. From short and snappy phrases to clever abbreviations, we’ve got the inside scoop on how to talk about cutting things down in style. Join us as we unveil the top slang terms that will have you cutting through conversations with ease and flair.

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1. Cut

To decrease the size, amount, or quantity of something. “Cut” is a versatile slang term that can be used in various contexts to describe the act of reducing something.

For example, “I need to cut down on my spending to save money.”
In a conversation about weight loss, someone might say, “I’m trying to cut back on carbs.”
Another person might say, “Let’s cut the number of meetings we have each week to increase productivity.”

2. Trim

To remove excess or unnecessary parts to make something more efficient or concise. “Trim” is often used as a slang term to describe the act of reducing something by removing unnecessary elements.

For instance, “We need to trim the budget to meet our financial goals.”
In a discussion about editing a document, someone might suggest, “Let’s trim down the content to make it more focused.”
A person might say, “I’m going to trim my schedule to make more time for self-care.”

3. Shave

To reduce a small amount from something. “Shave” is a slang term that implies a slight reduction or removal of something.

For example, “I’m going to shave a few minutes off my morning routine.”
In a conversation about expenses, someone might say, “I need to shave some dollars off my monthly bills.”
Another person might say, “Let’s shave off a couple of unnecessary steps in our workflow to save time.”

4. Slash

To drastically decrease or reduce something. “Slash” is a slang term that conveys a significant reduction or cut.

For instance, “The company had to slash its workforce in order to stay afloat.”
In a discussion about prices, someone might say, “The store slashed the prices of their products for the sale.”
A person might suggest, “Let’s slash the time it takes to complete this project by half.”

5. Decrease

To make something smaller or less in quantity. “Decrease” is a more formal term for reduction, but can still be used as a slang term to describe the act of lowering or reducing something.

For example, “We need to decrease our carbon footprint to protect the environment.”
In a conversation about sales, someone might say, “We need to decrease the price of this product to attract more customers.”
Another person might suggest, “Let’s decrease the amount of sugar in this recipe to make it healthier.”

6. Minimize

To make something smaller or less in quantity or importance.

For example, “You should minimize your expenses to save money.”
A person might say, “I need to minimize distractions so I can focus on my work.”
In a discussion about environmental impact, someone might suggest, “We should minimize our use of single-use plastics.”

7. Downsize

To reduce the size or number of something, often referring to reducing the size of a company or workforce.

For instance, “The company had to downsize due to financial difficulties.”
A person might say, “I need to downsize my wardrobe and get rid of clothes I don’t wear.”
In a conversation about living arrangements, someone might suggest, “We should downsize to a smaller apartment to save money.”

8. Scale back

To reduce the size, extent, or intensity of something.

For example, “The company decided to scale back its advertising budget.”
A person might say, “I need to scale back my commitments so I have more free time.”
In a discussion about a project, someone might suggest, “We should scale back our goals to make them more achievable.”

9. Diminish

To make or become less in size, intensity, or importance.

For instance, “The storm’s intensity began to diminish as it moved away.”
A person might say, “The company’s profits have diminished over the past year.”
In a conversation about a relationship, someone might say, “Trust issues can diminish the bond between two people.”

10. Lower

To reduce in amount, value, or intensity.

For example, “They decided to lower the price of the product to attract more customers.”
A person might say, “Lower your voice, we’re in a library.”
In a discussion about taxes, someone might suggest, “We should lower the tax rate to stimulate economic growth.”

11. Dwindle

To gradually decrease in size, amount, or intensity. “Dwindle” is often used to describe a reduction that occurs over time.

For example, “The crowd began to dwindle as the concert went on.”
A person discussing a declining population might say, “The number of endangered species continues to dwindle.”
Another might note, “As the night wore on, the excitement dwindled and people started to leave.”

12. Curtail

To reduce or limit something, often by cutting it back or making it shorter or less frequent. “Curtail” is used to describe a deliberate action taken to decrease something.

For instance, “The company decided to curtail its spending to save money.”
A person discussing energy conservation might say, “To reduce energy consumption, you can curtail your use of electronics.”
Another might advise, “If you want to lose weight, you should curtail your intake of sugary foods.”

13. Pare down

To reduce or simplify something by removing unnecessary or excessive elements. “Pare down” is often used to describe the process of making something more efficient or focused.

For example, “The company decided to pare down its product line to focus on its core offerings.”
A person discussing decluttering might say, “To create a more organized space, you should pare down your belongings.”
Another might suggest, “If you want to improve your writing, try to pare down your sentences to make them more concise.”

14. Taper

To gradually decrease in size, amount, or intensity. “Taper” is often used to describe a reduction that occurs gradually.

For instance, “The intensity of the storm began to taper off as the night went on.”
A person discussing a training program might say, “It’s important to taper your workouts to prevent injury and allow for recovery.”
Another might note, “As the project deadline approached, the team’s workload started to taper.”

15. Ease off

To reduce in intensity or severity. “Ease off” is often used to describe a decrease in pressure or tension.

For example, “After a busy day, the traffic on the roads starts to ease off.”
A person discussing a stressful situation might say, “I can’t wait for things to ease off so I can relax.”
Another might comment, “Once the rain starts to ease off, we can go outside and enjoy the sunshine.”

16. Squeeze

To reduce something or make it smaller in size or amount. The term “squeeze” often implies a tight or limited space.

For instance, in a budget discussion, someone might say, “We need to squeeze our expenses to save money.”
In a conversation about time management, a person might advise, “Squeeze in some extra study time before the exam.”
A fitness enthusiast might say, “Squeeze in a quick workout during your lunch break.”

17. Drop

To lower or reduce something, often in terms of quantity or intensity. “Drop” is a common slang term for reduction.

For example, in a conversation about weight loss, someone might say, “I need to drop a few pounds before summer.”
A person discussing their energy levels might say, “My energy always drops in the afternoon.”
Another might mention, “I’m trying to drop my sugar intake for better health.”

18. Condense

To make something more concise or compact. “Condense” often refers to reducing the length or size of something while maintaining its essential meaning or content.

For instance, in a writing workshop, a teacher might say, “You need to condense this paragraph to make it more impactful.”
In a discussion about studying, someone might advise, “Condense your notes into key points for easier review.”
A person talking about travel might say, “I always condense my clothes to fit everything into a carry-on bag.”

19. Deplete

To exhaust or reduce the supply or amount of something. “Deplete” often implies a significant or rapid reduction.

For example, in a conversation about natural resources, someone might say, “We need to be careful not to deplete our water sources.”
A person discussing their energy levels might say, “I feel completely depleted after a long day of work.”
Another might mention, “The constant use of electronic devices depletes the battery quickly.”

20. Subside

To become less intense, active, or prominent. “Subside” often refers to a reduction in intensity or volume.

For instance, in a discussion about a storm, someone might say, “The rain will subside by tomorrow morning.”
In a conversation about pain, a person might say, “I took medication to help the pain subside.”
A person discussing emotions might say, “After a while, my anger started to subside and I was able to think more clearly.”

21. Whittle down

This slang phrase means to reduce or decrease something, often by gradually removing or eliminating unnecessary or unimportant parts.

For example, “We need to whittle down the guest list for the party.”
In a discussion about budget cuts, someone might say, “We’ll have to whittle down our expenses to stay within our budget.”
A person trying to declutter their home might say, “I’m going to whittle down my wardrobe and donate clothes I no longer wear.”

22. Shrink

This slang term refers to the act of reducing or making something smaller in size or quantity.

For instance, “We need to shrink the file size in order to send it via email.”
In a conversation about weight loss, someone might say, “I’m trying to shrink my waistline.”
A person discussing the downsizing of a company might say, “The company had to shrink its workforce to stay afloat.”

23. Slim down

This slang phrase means to become thinner or more slender, often through weight loss or a reduction in body fat.

For example, “I’ve been working out and eating healthy to slim down for summer.”
In a discussion about healthy eating, someone might say, “Cutting out sugary drinks can help you slim down.”
A person talking about reducing clutter in their home might say, “I’m trying to slim down my belongings by getting rid of things I don’t need.”

24. Streamline

This slang term means to simplify or make something more efficient by removing unnecessary steps or processes.

For instance, “We need to streamline our production process to increase productivity.”
In a conversation about organizing tasks, someone might say, “Let’s streamline our workflow by using project management software.”
A person discussing time management might say, “Streamlining my morning routine has helped me be more productive throughout the day.”

25. Trim down

This slang phrase means to reduce or decrease something, often by cutting back on excess or unnecessary elements.

For example, “I need to trim down my expenses to save money.”
In a discussion about editing a document, someone might say, “We should trim down this paragraph to make it more concise.”
A person talking about their fitness goals might say, “I’m trying to trim down my body fat percentage by eating healthier and exercising regularly.”

26. Scale down

This term is used to describe the act of reducing the size or amount of something. It often refers to making something smaller or less significant.

For example, “We need to scale down our production to meet the lower demand.”
In a discussion about budget cuts, someone might suggest, “We should scale down our expenses to save money.”
A person talking about weight loss might say, “I’ve been trying to scale down my portion sizes to lose weight.”

27. Take off

This phrase is used to describe the act of reducing or removing something. It implies a sudden or significant decrease or elimination of a certain aspect.

For instance, “I need to take off a few pounds before my vacation.”
In a conversation about workload, someone might say, “I’m going to take off some tasks from my to-do list.”
A person discussing a party might mention, “We should take off some decorations to create a more minimalist look.”

28. Taper off

This term is used to describe the gradual decrease or reduction of something over time. It implies a slow and steady decline.

For example, “The rain is expected to taper off throughout the day.”
In a discussion about medication, a doctor might advise, “You should taper off the dosage to avoid withdrawal symptoms.”
A person talking about a declining trend might say, “The sales have been tapering off for the past few months.”

29. Cut back

This phrase is used to describe the act of reducing or decreasing something. It implies a deliberate and conscious effort to reduce the amount or frequency of something.

For instance, “I need to cut back on my expenses to save money.”
In a conversation about unhealthy habits, someone might say, “I’m trying to cut back on sugar.”
A person discussing work-life balance might mention, “I’m planning to cut back on my hours to spend more time with my family.”

30. Pare back

This term is used to describe the act of trimming or reducing something to its essential or minimal form. It often implies removing unnecessary or excessive elements.

For example, “We should pare back the design to make it more streamlined.”
In a discussion about a project, someone might suggest, “Let’s pare back the scope to meet the deadline.”
A person talking about decluttering might say, “I’m going to pare back my belongings to create a more minimalist living space.”

31. Ease up

This phrase is used to tell someone to calm down or to take a more relaxed approach to a situation.

For example, if someone is getting too worked up over a small issue, you might say, “Hey, ease up. It’s not that big of a deal.”
In a stressful situation, someone might remind themselves to “take a deep breath and ease up.”
If a friend is overworking themselves, you could say, “You need to ease up and take some time for yourself.”

32. Reduce

To reduce means to make something smaller in size, quantity, or intensity.

For instance, if you want to cut down on sugar, you might say, “I’m trying to reduce my intake of sugary foods.”
In a discussion about carbon emissions, someone might suggest, “We need to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.”
If a recipe calls for a lot of butter, you could say, “You can reduce the amount of butter in this recipe and it will still taste great.”

33. Lessen

To lessen means to make something smaller, weaker, or less intense.

For example, if you’re experiencing a headache, you might take a pain reliever to lessen the pain.
In a conversation about stress, someone might say, “I’m trying to find ways to lessen the amount of stress in my life.”
If a company is facing financial difficulties, they might need to lessen their expenses by cutting costs.

34. Mitigate

To mitigate means to make something less severe, harmful, or painful.

For instance, if a flood is predicted, authorities might take measures to mitigate the damage by building levees or diverting water.
In a discussion about climate change, someone might argue, “We need to take immediate action to mitigate the effects of global warming.”
If a company is facing a cybersecurity threat, they might implement measures to mitigate the risk of a data breach.

35. Alleviate

To alleviate means to make something less severe, intense, or painful.

For example, if someone is experiencing a headache, they might take a pain reliever to alleviate the pain.
In a conversation about poverty, someone might propose solutions to alleviate the financial hardships faced by marginalized communities.
If a person is feeling stressed, they might engage in activities that help to alleviate stress, such as yoga or meditation.

36. Lighten

To relax or calm down, especially in a stressful or intense situation.

For example, if someone is getting worked up over a minor issue, you might say, “Hey, lighten up! It’s not that big of a deal.”
In a heated argument, one person might tell the other, “Take a deep breath and try to lighten the mood.”
If someone is feeling overwhelmed, a friend might suggest, “Why don’t you take a break and do something to lighten your spirits?”

37. Soften

To become or make something less intense, aggressive, or harsh.

For instance, if someone is being too confrontational, you might say, “You need to soften your approach if you want to resolve this peacefully.”
In a tense situation, one person might suggest, “Let’s try to soften the atmosphere by finding common ground.”
If someone is constantly criticizing others, a friend might advise, “You should soften your comments and consider their feelings.”

38. Quell

To suppress or extinguish a strong or intense feeling, usually anger or anxiety.

For example, if someone is getting angry, you might say, “Take a deep breath and quell your anger before you say something you’ll regret.”
In a heated argument, one person might demand, “Quell your hostility and let’s have a rational discussion.”
If someone is feeling anxious, a friend might suggest, “Try some deep breathing exercises to quell your anxiety.”

39. Temper

To decrease the intensity or severity of something, especially emotions or reactions.

For instance, if someone is overreacting, you might say, “You need to temper your response and think rationally.”
In a heated debate, one person might urge, “Let’s cool down and approach this with a level head.”
If someone is feeling overwhelmed, a friend might advise, “Take a step back and find ways to temper your stress.”

40. Allay

To reduce or alleviate something, usually fears, concerns, or worries.

For example, if someone is worried about a situation, you might say, “Let me allay your fears by providing more information.”
In a stressful moment, one person might suggest, “Take a break to ease up and recharge.”
If someone is feeling overwhelmed, a friend might offer, “I’ll help you with your workload to allay some of your stress.”

41. Assuage

This word means to make something less intense or severe, to alleviate or calm.

For example, “I took some painkillers to assuage my headache.”
A person might say, “I tried to assuage her fears by reassuring her that everything would be okay.”
In a discussion about stress relief, someone might suggest, “Listening to music can help assuage anxiety.”

42. Relieve

To relieve means to lessen or ease something, such as pain, stress, or discomfort.

For instance, “I took a hot shower to relieve my sore muscles.”
A person might say, “Taking a vacation can relieve stress and improve overall well-being.”
In a conversation about allergies, someone might recommend, “Using a nasal spray can help relieve congestion.”

43. Abate

To abate means to become less intense or to reduce in amount or degree.

For example, “The storm started to abate, and the rain slowed down.”
A person might say, “Taking medication can help abate the symptoms of a cold.”
In a discussion about noise pollution, someone might suggest, “Installing soundproofing can help abate the noise from outside.”

44. Narrow down

To narrow down means to reduce the number of options or possibilities, to make something more specific or focused.

For instance, “I need to narrow down my choices before making a decision.”
A person might say, “Let’s narrow down the list of potential candidates to three.”
In a conversation about vacation destinations, someone might suggest, “Let’s narrow down our options to tropical locations.”

45. Limit

To limit means to set a boundary or restriction on something, to reduce or control.

For example, “I need to limit my caffeine intake to avoid sleep problems.”
A person might say, “There’s a limit to how much you can eat before feeling too full.”
In a discussion about internet usage, someone might recommend, “It’s important to limit screen time for children.”

46. Constrict

To constrict means to squeeze or tighten something, making it smaller or more narrow. It can also refer to limiting or restricting something.

For example, “The snake constricted its prey, suffocating it.”
In a discussion about budget cuts, someone might say, “We need to constrict spending in order to balance the budget.”
A person describing a tight-fitting outfit might say, “This dress constricts my movement.”

47. Shorten

To shorten means to make something smaller in length or duration. It can also refer to reducing the number of words or characters in a text.

For instance, “Can you shorten this paragraph? It’s too long.”
In a conversation about a movie, someone might say, “They had to shorten the film to fit the time slot.”
A person discussing a haircut might say, “I want to shorten my hair, but not too much.”

48. Narrow

To narrow means to make something more narrow or less wide. It can also refer to reducing the scope or focus of something.

For example, “The road narrows as you approach the bridge.”
In a discussion about options, someone might say, “Let’s narrow down our choices to the top three.”
A person describing weight loss goals might say, “I want to narrow down my waistline.”

49. Tighten

To tighten means to make something more secure or less loose. It can also refer to making something more strict or restrictive.

For instance, “Please tighten the bolts on this chair.”
In a conversation about regulations, someone might say, “We need to tighten the rules to prevent fraud.”
A person discussing personal finances might say, “I need to tighten my budget to save more money.”

50. Weaken

To weaken means to lose strength or become less powerful. It can also refer to reducing the intensity or impact of something.

For example, “The disease weakens the immune system.”
In a discussion about an argument, someone might say, “His counterpoints weakened her position.”
A person describing a storm might say, “The hurricane weakened as it moved inland.”

51. Moderate

To moderate means to tone down or reduce the intensity or severity of something. It can refer to reducing the level of something or making it less extreme.

For example, “Let’s moderate the volume of the music so it’s not too loud.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might say, “We need to find a way to moderate the extreme views on both sides.”
A person giving feedback on a project might suggest, “You should moderate the use of bright colors to make the design more balanced.”

52. Subdue

Subdue means to bring something or someone under control or to lessen the intensity or force of something.

For instance, “The police were able to subdue the suspect and make an arrest.”
In a self-defense class, the instructor might teach techniques to subdue an attacker without causing harm.
A person describing a difficult situation might say, “I had to subdue my emotions and stay calm to handle the situation.”

53. Soothe

To soothe means to calm or pacify someone or something, especially in times of distress or discomfort.

For example, “The mother tried to soothe her crying baby by rocking him gently.”
When someone is upset, a friend might say, “Take deep breaths and listen to some calming music to soothe yourself.”
A person experiencing physical pain might use a soothing cream or lotion to relieve discomfort.

54. Calm

Calm means to relax or become less agitated or anxious. It refers to a state of tranquility or peacefulness.

For instance, “She took a deep breath to calm herself before giving a presentation.”
In a stressful situation, someone might say, “Let’s all stay calm and think of a solution.”
A person describing a peaceful scene might say, “The calm lake reflected the colors of the sunset.”

55. Pacify

To pacify means to calm or soothe someone or to bring peace to a situation. It involves reducing hostility or tension.

For example, “The negotiator was able to pacify the angry crowd and prevent violence.”
In a heated argument, someone might say, “Let’s find a compromise to pacify both sides.”
A parent might pacify a crying child by offering a toy or a treat.

56. Tranquilize

To tranquilize means to calm down or relax someone or something, often by using medication or a sedative.

For example, a doctor might say, “We need to tranquilize the patient before the surgery.”
In a discussion about handling anxiety, someone might suggest, “Try deep breathing exercises to tranquilize your mind.”
A person describing the effects of a certain medication might say, “It helped me tranquilize my racing thoughts and get a good night’s sleep.”

57. Lull

To lull means to soothe or calm someone or something, often by creating a peaceful or relaxing atmosphere.

For instance, a parent might say, “The sound of rain helps to lull my baby to sleep.”
In a conversation about finding inner peace, someone might advise, “Take a walk in nature to lull your mind.”
A person describing the effects of a certain music might say, “The soft melodies help to lull me into a state of relaxation.”

58. Sedate

To sedate means to calm down or relax someone or something, often by using medication or a sedative.

For example, a veterinarian might say, “We need to sedate the dog before the procedure.”
In a discussion about managing anxiety, someone might suggest, “Practice deep breathing exercises to sedate your mind.”
A person describing the effects of a certain medication might say, “It helped me sedate my racing thoughts and feel more at ease.”

59. Numb

To numb means to desensitize or deaden a sensation, often by using medication or a numbing agent.

For instance, a dentist might say, “I’ll apply a numbing gel to numb the area before the injection.”
In a conversation about emotional pain, someone might share, “Sometimes I numb my feelings to avoid getting hurt.”
A person describing the effects of a certain cream might say, “It helps to numb the pain and provide temporary relief.”

60. Stifle

To stifle means to suppress or restrain something, often an emotion or a reaction.

For example, a teacher might say, “Please stifle your laughter during the exam.”
In a discussion about expressing anger, someone might advise, “Take deep breaths to stifle your frustration.”
A person describing a challenging situation might say, “I had to stifle my disappointment and put on a brave face.”

61. Hush

This term is used to tell someone to be quiet or stop talking. It is often used in a playful or gentle manner.

For example, a parent might say to their child, “Hush now, it’s time to go to sleep.”
In a library, a librarian might say, “Please hush your voices, this is a quiet space.”
A friend might jokingly say, “Hush, you talk too much!”

62. Muffle

To muffle something means to reduce or deaden the sound it produces. It can be done by covering or wrapping the object to reduce the noise it makes.

For instance, a person might muffle the sound of their alarm clock by placing it under a pillow.
In a recording studio, soundproofing materials are used to muffle external noises.
A person might say, “I had to muffle my laughter during the serious meeting.”

63. Silence

Silence refers to the absence of sound or noise. It is the state of quiet or tranquility.

For example, during a moment of silence, everyone remains quiet to pay respect.
In a library, people are expected to maintain silence to create a peaceful environment for studying.
A person might say, “The silence in the room was deafening.”

64. Quench

To quench means to satisfy a thirst or desire, or to extinguish or put out something.

For instance, a person might quench their thirst by drinking a glass of water.
In a fire, firefighters work to quench the flames and prevent further damage.
A person might say, “I need some chocolate to quench my sweet tooth.”

65. Squelch

Squelch means to suppress or eliminate something, often a sound or noise. It can also refer to silencing or stopping someone from speaking.

For example, a person might squelch a rumor by providing evidence to disprove it.
In a conversation, one person might squelch another’s opinion by dismissing it without consideration.
A teacher might say, “Let’s squelch the noise and focus on our work.”

66. Depreciate

This is a shortened version of the word “depreciate” and is used as slang to refer to a decrease or reduction in value or worth.

For example, “The value of my car has dep’d significantly since I bought it.”
In a financial context, someone might say, “The stock market crash caused many investments to dep.”
A person discussing the decline in popularity of a certain trend might say, “That fashion trend has definitely dep’d over the years.”