minimize

especially British, min·i·mise

[min-uh-mahyz]

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

/ 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

Word History and Origins

Origin of minimize¹

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

Example Sentences

Instead, “AI literacy” has become a buzzword of the back-to-school season, with a focus on how to leverage the potential of AI while minimizing its risks.

From Los Angeles Times

“This sentence minimizes the gravity of Rodriguez’s actions and the devastating impact on Mr. Morin’s family, while also disregarding the significant effort the jury devoted to reaching a just verdict,” Chief Deputy Dist.

From Los Angeles Times

The state says it is studying these questions and looking carefully at whether it needs to minimize or mitigate impacts.

From Los Angeles Times

The goal is simple: minimize repeated trips to the cutting board and maintain a sense of flow.

From Salon

“The fact that these dumbfounding transfers in the middle of the night cause chaos, confusion, and minimizes access to legal representation does not seem to bother them one bit,” he said in a statement.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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