minimize

American  

[min-uh-mahyz] / ˈmɪn əˌmaɪz /

especially British, minimise

verb (used with object)

minimized, minimizing

1. to reduce to the smallest possible amount or degree.

2. to represent at the lowest possible amount, value, importance, influence, etc., especially in a disparaging way; belittle.

---

minimize British  

/ ˈmɪnɪˌmaɪz /

verb

1. to reduce to or estimate at the least possible degree or amount

   to minimize a risk

2. to rank or treat at less than the true worth; belittle

   to minimize someone's achievements

---

Other Word Forms

• minimization noun
• minimizer noun
• unminimized adjective
• unminimizing adjective

Etymology

Origin of minimize

First recorded in 1795–1805; minim(um) + -ize

Example Sentences

“The threat is minimized with the Santa Anas we’re expecting. But we can’t totally rule that out,” Hall said about wildfire risk.

From Los Angeles Times

“We are actively managing the situation and are working with CME Group to restore services as quickly as possible. Our priority is to minimize impact and ensure market integrity,” it added.

From The Wall Street Journal

Rodriguez said there are “very valid reasons” to pay attention to alerts but that minimizing their harmful effects is crucial for economic recovery.

From Los Angeles Times

Several systems now allow students to apply to several public universities and colleges with a single application, minimizing fees and avoiding the time-consuming process of completing different forms, writing essays and collecting letters of recommendation.

From Los Angeles Times

We all care about trying to minimize taxes in any given year, but lifetime tax-rate management focuses on minimizing your effective tax rate over your lifetime.

From Barron's

Related Words

• curtail
• decrease
• diminish
• downplay
• lessen
• play down
• reduce
• trivialize
• underestimate