a serious reduction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a serious reduction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a significant decrease in quantity, quality, or intensity of something. Example: "The company announced a serious reduction in its workforce due to financial difficulties."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

It's a serious reduction.

The New York Times

China's goal is a "serious reduction of the nuclear threat".

The Guardian

We don't foresee a serious reduction in their numbers".

The New York Times

The turnover decline is being blamed on a serious reduction in royalties.

The Guardian - Business

More common than a small head was poor growth in the womb and a serious reduction in the amount of amniotic fluid around the baby.

The Guardian

The numbers just don't add up, and under the Bush plan, a serious reduction of our national debt is simply impossible...

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Now, there is an appetite for serious reduction in coal.

Huffington Post

The rats in the F/C group experienced a more rapid and serious reduction in their sugar consumption ratio.

Behavioral and Brain Functions

While critics of the proposals will argue that it is not possible to eliminate piracy, serious reduction in piracy is a meaningful goal".

The Guardian - Tech

And the red wine sauce was a serious, potent reduction.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Once there is a serious spending reduction on the table, that changes the whole psychology.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a serious reduction", consider the specific context to determine if a more precise term (e.g. decline, drop, cutback) would enhance clarity.

Common error

Be careful not to use "a serious reduction" when the decrease is only moderate; ensure the reduction is genuinely significant to avoid exaggeration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a serious reduction" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a significant decrease or lessening of something. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a serious reduction" is a noun phrase used to describe a significant decrease. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts, especially in news, science, and formal writing. When using this phrase, consider whether the reduction is truly significant and if a more precise term would be more appropriate. While "a serious reduction" can be used across different registers, it is most common in neutral and professional communications. Be mindful of overstating the severity and ensure the reduction is genuinely significant.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant decrease

Emphasizes the degree of decrease, suggesting a notable change.

a substantial decline

Highlights the downward trend and the magnitude of the decrease.

a major drop

Indicates a sudden and considerable decrease.

a marked reduction

Focuses on the visibility and easy recognition of the decrease.

a sharp fall

Suggests a rapid and steep decrease.

a considerable lessening

Emphasizes the reduction in intensity or degree.

a heavy curtailment

Implies a strong and restrictive reduction, often in spending or resources.

a drastic cutback

Highlights the severity and abruptness of the reduction.

a severe contraction

Focuses on a reduction in size or scope, often in economic contexts.

a noteworthy depletion

Indicates a significant reduction in a resource or supply.

FAQs

How can I use "a serious reduction" in a sentence?

You can use "a serious reduction" to describe a significant decrease in something. For example, "The company experienced "a serious reduction" in profits this quarter".

What are some alternatives to "a serious reduction"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a significant decrease", "a substantial decline", or "a major drop" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "serious reduction in" or "serious reduction of"?

Both "serious reduction in" and "serious reduction of" are grammatically correct, but "serious reduction in" is more commonly used, especially when referring to abstract concepts. "Serious reduction of" is typically used with tangible objects.

What's the difference between "a serious reduction" and "a slight reduction"?

"A serious reduction" implies a significant and impactful decrease, while "a slight reduction" indicates a minor and less noticeable decrease. The choice depends on the magnitude of the decrease you are describing.