minimize
verb (used with object)
to reduce to the smallest possible amount or degree.
had minimized
-
past perfectof minimize.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Habib Balian opposed parole for Erik Menendez during the hearing, arguing he lied to the Parole Board and had minimized his role in the killings during the hearing.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 21, 2025
“I don’t think I did that,” she said in response to a question about whether she had minimized the findings of a devastating regulatory inspection at Theranos.
From New York Times ● Dec. 7, 2021
With the addition of David Phelps, Seattle’s need to use Cishek in higher leverage roles, which Tampa plans to do, had minimized.
From Seattle Times ● Jul. 28, 2017
A Reuters examination of Amazon's accounts showed how the world's biggest online retailer had minimized corporate taxes by setting up in Luxembourg, and channeling sales through its units there.
From Reuters ● Dec. 6, 2012
Inspector Baynes, who, with his usual astuteness, had minimized the incident before me, had really recognized its importance and had left a trap into which the creature walked.
From The Adventure of Wisteria Lodge by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
