decrease - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
decrease Word Meanings
- to become smaller or less
- to reduce in size or amount
- a reduction in quantity or size
decrease Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
decrease Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈkriːs/
US
/dɪˈkriːs/
decrease Word Etymology
de- (from) + crease (grow), indicating something that is lessened or diminished; Latin 'decreascere' from 'crescere' (to grow). Picture a balloon slowly losing air until it shrinks to a tiny size.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
Hands on the dial, I turn it a touch to the left. The numbers slide down and the room cools a bit. I feel a small push of effort in my wrist as I hold the turn, settling into a steady rhythm. That same quiet move shows up later when I trim a budget or scale back a plan, letting things feel lighter.
Real Context
Decrease is a versatile word in English that functions as both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to become smaller in size, amount, or strength, and to cause something to become less. As a noun, it refers to a reduction or decline in quantity or level. The etymology points to de- (from) and crease (grow), which helps you picture something that is shrinking. In everyday use you’ll hear about prices, numbers, temperatures, and scores decreasing, and you can also discuss more abstract declines like interest or effort. Learners often mix up decrease with reduce, lessen, or diminish, and they worry about choosing the right preposition after decrease (a decrease in vs a decrease of).
Usage Reminders
- Use decrease for formal, measurable drops; prefer go down or drop in casual speech
- Choose decrease in for a change in amount or level (a decrease in profits), and decrease by for the exact amount (decrease by 5%).
- Remember noun vs verb forms: a decrease (noun) vs to decrease (verb).
Common Misconceptions
- Decrease and reduce are interchangeable in all contexts
- A decrease always refers to a negative change
- Decrease can only describe numerical values, never abstract concepts
- You must always use 'decrease of' after the noun
- The noun form is used only in scientific writing
Thinking Differences
Native English speakers often picture decrease as a neutral, measurable drop in numbers or levels. It is common in formal writing and statistical contexts; learners often confuse it with reduce or lessen and worry about using the right preposition after decrease.
Learning Tips
- Memorize that decrease is both a verb and a noun.
- Learn common collocations: decrease in X, decrease by Y.
- Differentiate increase/decrease contexts in data vs everyday talk.
- Practice with numbers, prices, temperatures, and scores.
- Use synonyms in casual speech: go down, drop, fall.
- Check prepositions after decrease: in, by.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'decrease'?
A.Increase
B.Reduce
C.Laugh
D.Jump
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'decrease' correctly?
A.I tried to decrease the speed of my car by pressing the accelerator.
B.She ate a lot, causing her weight to decrease rapidly.
C.The temperature continued to decrease throughout the day.
D.The decrease in his grades made him happy.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'decrease'?
A.Greet
B.Increase
C.Travel
D.Speak
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'decrease'?
A.Eat
B.Sleep
C.Increase
D.Run
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context for the word 'decrease'?
A.The company implemented cost-cutting measures to decrease expenses.
B.She went shopping to buy more things and increase her collection.
C.He took up jogging every day to improve his health and increase his fitness level.
D.The new restaurant in town has been receiving an increase in customers due to its tasty food.
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