a downsizing of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a downsizing of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the process of reducing the size or number of employees in a company or organization. Example: "The company announced a downsizing of its workforce due to financial difficulties."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

Disability services have been further cut in a downsizing of the Human Rights Commission.

The Guardian

The research shows that career interruptions lead to a downsizing of aspiration as well as income.

Harvard Business Review

The approach enables a downsizing of the overall system compared to a single storage system and consequently decreases costs.

Applied Energy

It was closed as part of a downsizing of Portugal's textile production in the face of competition from China and other cheaper producers.

The New York Times - Arts

The project reflects a downsizing of the Wadsworth's earlier plans, announced in 2002, which would have incorporated its five existing buildings into one.

The New York Times

If this is not a downsizing of history, then what is? Jon Lee Anderson, a staff writer, began contributing to the magazine in 1998.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

A downsize of the current screening programme could potentially increase the risk of HPV-related malignancies, in the light of the lack of information about the impact of immunisation on the coverage and frequency of screening.

BMJ Open

It is predicated on quiet confidence about a general-election win next year and a belief that, to limit the anger aroused by a subsequent downsizing of the state, a Tory government needs an explicit mandate for it.

The Economist

As the University of California regents get down to the hard work of recruiting a new president before Mark G. Yudof retires in August, they might consider an even bolder move: a dramatic downsizing of the president's office.

Los Angeles Times

In February 2011, Dunderdale's government rejected a report prepared by an independent committee that called for a massive downsizing of the fishing industry.

Wikipedia

One board partner favored a major downsizing of the business and a major shift in product market focus, which would mean writing off hundreds of millions of dollars to shutter high-cost plants.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a downsizing of" when referring to a strategic reduction in personnel, resources, or scope to improve efficiency or address financial constraints. Be specific about what is being downsized to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a downsizing of" vaguely. Always specify what is being downsized (e.g., "a downsizing of the marketing department", not just "a downsizing"). This prevents ambiguity and ensures the context is clear to the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a downsizing of" functions as a noun phrase, specifically as a description of a reduction in size, scope, or personnel. It is typically followed by a noun or noun phrase specifying what is being reduced. As noted by Ludwig, it is a common construction for expressing this concept.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a downsizing of" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to describe a reduction in size, scope, or personnel. Ludwig's analysis shows that it is most commonly found in news and media sources, as well as in scientific and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure you clearly specify what is being downsized to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "a reduction in" or "a cutback in" may be suitable depending on the specific context. It is a professional expression appropriate for neutral to formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a reduction in

Focuses on the quantitative aspect of decrease, applicable in broader contexts.

a cutback in

Implies a more abrupt or forced reduction, often due to financial constraints.

a contraction of

Suggests a shrinking or lessening in size or scope, fitting well in economic or physical contexts.

a decrease in size of

Emphasizes the physical dimension of the reduction, suitable for tangible objects or organizations.

a shrinking of

Conveys a gradual reduction, often implying a loss of something over time.

a streamlining of

Suggests simplifying and making more efficient by reducing unnecessary elements.

a trimming of

Implies a small or careful reduction, often aimed at improving efficiency.

a scaling down of

Indicates a reduction in scale or intensity, often used in project management or manufacturing.

a retrenchment of

Suggests a defensive reduction, typically in response to economic hardship or competitive pressure.

a slimming down of

Similar to streamlining but emphasizes making leaner, often used for organizations or budgets.

FAQs

How can I use "a downsizing of" in a sentence?

Use "a downsizing of" to describe a reduction in size, scope, or personnel. For example, "The company announced "a downsizing of its workforce" due to economic challenges."

What are some alternatives to "a downsizing of"?

Alternatives include "a reduction in", "a cutback in", or "a contraction of". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a downsizing of" in formal writing?

Yes, "a downsizing of" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in business and economic contexts. It clearly and professionally conveys the concept of reducing size or scope. However, ensure the context is clear to maintain professionalism.

What's the difference between "a downsizing of" and "downsizing"?

"Downsizing" is the act or process of reducing in size, while "a downsizing of" refers to a specific instance or example of that process. For example, "downsizing is often a difficult decision", versus "a downsizing of the company occurred last quarter".