Reduction Meaning

UK /rɪˈdʌkʃən/
US /rɪˈdʌkʃən/
Word Definition
reduction meaning

Reduction Definition & Usage

noun

The process or result of making something smaller or less in amount, degree, or size.

Examples

  • "The reduction in office hours is a direct result of the company's budget cuts."
  • "After the reduction of the workforce, many employees were left uncertain about their roles."
  • "She noticed a significant reduction in the amount of sugar she consumed after switching to a plant-based diet."
  • "The reduction of pollution levels was celebrated by environmentalists as a major success."
  • "Due to the reduction in costs, the product became more affordable to a wider market."
noun

A transformation that simplifies an equation, expression, or system, often to make it more manageable or easier to solve.

Examples

  • "In algebra, a reduction is often used to simplify complex expressions."
  • "The reduction of a fraction involves dividing both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor."
  • "To solve this problem, we applied a reduction to the equation, which made it solvable in just a few steps."
  • "The reduction in the number of variables made the data analysis significantly easier."
  • "Reduction is a common technique in calculus, especially when simplifying limits or integrals."
noun

The process of decreasing body weight or fat, often for health or aesthetic purposes.

Examples

  • "The doctor recommended a reduction in calorie intake to improve his health."
  • "After a few months of consistent exercise, she noticed a reduction in body fat."
  • "The new diet plan promises a gradual reduction in weight without compromising nutritional needs."
  • "A reduction in sodium intake is crucial for managing high blood pressure."
  • "Her reduction in stress levels through yoga had a profound impact on her overall well-being."

Cultural Context

The concept of 'reduction' is widely used across various disciplines, from general life (budget cuts, weight loss) to specialized fields like science and mathematics. Its origins lie in Latin, from the verb 'reducere', meaning 'to bring back, restore'. Over time, it expanded to signify any process of making something smaller, simpler, or less in quantity or intensity.

The Weight of Change

Story

The Weight of Change

Emma had always been active, but after a stressful year at work, she found herself gaining weight. Her doctor had warned her about the potential health risks, so she knew it was time for a change. She decided to focus on the reduction of unhealthy habits and make conscious efforts to improve her diet and exercise routine. Emma started tracking her meals, aiming for a gradual reduction in her calorie intake, replacing processed foods with fresh, whole foods. At first, the process seemed slow, and the reduction in weight was barely noticeable. However, as weeks passed, the small changes began to add up. Her workouts also became a key part of the reduction plan. By combining strength training with cardio, she noticed a reduction in body fat, which was more visible as she fit into her clothes more comfortably. Emma felt more energetic and confident, but the reduction was not just physical. Her mental clarity and stress levels improved dramatically, as she made time for herself in the evenings to relax and unwind. Emma shared her journey with friends, explaining how she had achieved such positive results through consistent small reductions in her eating habits, workouts, and even her stress levels. She also learned that reduction wasn't just about taking things away; it was about simplifying life and focusing on what really mattered. One day, during a conversation with her colleague Mark, Emma talked about her experience with the reduction of unhealthy habits. Mark listened intently, sharing how he had recently undergone a reduction in his work hours due to a company restructure. He found the change difficult at first but soon realized that the reduction gave him more time for his family and personal projects. Emma smiled, understanding exactly what he meant. Reductions, whether in body weight or work hours, weren't just about losing something; they were about making space for something new.

The Weight of Change