as a means to reduce

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a means to reduce" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing methods or strategies aimed at decreasing something, such as costs, risks, or negative impacts. Example: "The company implemented new policies as a means to reduce operational costs and improve efficiency."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To examine this we first exposed VHL defective RCC10 cells to reduced oxygen, as a means to reduce FIH-1 enzymatic activity.

British Journal of Cancer

Iran saw the tribunal as a means to reduce tension.

The Guardian

Green streets as a means to reduce urban noise are discussed in this chapter.

Nature Based Strategies for Urban and Building Sustainability

CNMs are overwhelmingly in favor of EC as a means to reduce unintended pregnancy.

Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health

He claims that we advocate family planning as a means to reduce abortions, but don't "like to preach".

The New York Times

We agreed that it was important to evaluate the toxicity of the chemicals as a means to reduce soil erosion.

The Guardian

And yet, pro-life zealots never seem to argue for more affordable childcare as a means to reduce abortion.

The Guardian - Opinion

Its initial use seems to have been as a means to reduce irregularities and deception in elections.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Lightweight, age-hardenable aluminum alloys are attracting increasing attention as a means to reduce vehicle mass and improve fuel economy.

Acta Materialia

These data suggest phage cocktails could be employed post-slaughter as a means to reduce Salmonella contamination of pig carcasses.

International Journal of Food Microbiology

Many countries are now using or investigating offshore geological storage of CO2 as a means to reduce atmospheric CO2 emissions.

Continental Shelf Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as a means to reduce", ensure that the goal of reduction is clearly defined and measurable. For example, specify what is being reduced and by how much.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "as a means to reduce" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. In informal settings, consider simpler alternatives like "to reduce" or "to help reduce" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a means to reduce" functions as an adverbial phrase of purpose, indicating the intention behind an action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it expresses the reason for implementing a particular strategy or method, aiming to decrease something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

38%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a means to reduce" is a versatile phrase used to express the intention behind an action aimed at minimizing or lessening something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. Its frequent occurrence in diverse fields such as science, news, and academia indicates its broad applicability. While suitable for formal and professional communication, simpler alternatives may be preferable in informal contexts. The phrase is prevalent in authoritative sources like The Guardian and The New York Times. Remember to use "as a means to reduce" when you want to emphasize the strategic purpose of decreasing something.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a strategy to decrease

Changes "means" to "strategy", emphasizing a planned approach to reduction.

as a way to minimize

Substitutes "means" with "way" and "reduce" with "minimize", focusing on achieving the smallest possible amount.

with the aim of lessening

Replaces the entire phrase with an explicit statement of purpose, using "lessening" for reduction.

in an effort to curtail

Emphasizes active exertion to limit or restrain something.

in order to diminish

Highlights the intended outcome of making something smaller or less significant.

by employing techniques for reduction

Focuses on the application of specific methods to achieve a reduced state.

utilizing methods to abate

Uses more formal language, suggesting the lessening or suppression of something problematic.

through actions intended to curb

Implies active measures to restrain or control something undesirable.

as an avenue for cutting back

Introduces the concept of reducing expenditures or resources.

via mechanisms designed to shrink

Highlights a system or process intended to make something smaller.

FAQs

How can I use "as a means to reduce" in a sentence?

Use "as a means to reduce" to introduce an action or strategy intended to lessen something. For example, "The company adopted new policies "as a means to reduce" operational costs".

What are some alternatives to "as a means to reduce"?

You can use alternatives like "in order to decrease", "as a way to minimize", or "with the aim of lessening" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to say "as a means to reduce" or simply "to reduce"?

"As a means to reduce" is more formal and emphasizes the strategic intent behind the action. "To reduce" is simpler and more direct, suitable for less formal contexts.

Can "as a means of reducing" be used instead of "as a means to reduce"?

Yes, "as a means of reducing" is grammatically correct. The choice between the two often depends on stylistic preference, with "as a means to reduce" being more common.