curtail the volume

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "curtail the volume" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the reduction or limitation of sound levels, such as in audio settings or discussions about noise control. Example: "To create a more conducive environment for studying, we should curtail the volume of music played in the common areas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Some officials who supported the purchase program when it began last year said they saw evidence that the economy was growing more quickly, and that the Fed might be able to curtail the volume of its asset purchases by the third quarter.

The New York Times

The buffering capacity of the thin amorphous carbon layer lends credence to its use as the likely compliant matrix to curtail the volume expansion related cracking of silicon validating its choice as the matrix for bulk and thin film battery systems.

Electrochimica Acta

First, most large bacteria have expansive inclusion bodies that effectively curtail the volume of the cytoplasm and limit diffusion distances within the cell.

Gut Microbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

A quicker diagnosis could curtail the infection rate.

Stanford University

How could Mr. Whitaker curtail the Mueller inquiry?

The New York Times

They could curtail the bank's lending.

The Washington Post

Parrish said that should curtail the histrionics.

The New York Times - Sports

The left wants to curtail the power of global megabanks.

The New York Times

To curtail the outbreak the government imposed several strict measures.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The bill would even curtail the flow of unclassified information.

The New York Times

Such assurances failed to curtail the rush of withdrawals.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "curtail the volume", consider the context and ensure it aligns with the intended meaning of reducing or limiting the amount, size, or extent of something, rather than a more general sense of stopping it entirely.

Common error

Avoid using "curtail the volume" when you mean to completely eliminate something. "Curtail" implies a reduction or limitation, not complete cessation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "curtail the volume" functions as a verb phrase where "curtail" acts as a transitive verb taking "the volume" as its direct object. Ludwig's examples show it being used to describe the reduction or limitation of something, like asset purchases or cytoplasm.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "curtail the volume" is a grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe reducing or limiting the quantity or intensity of something. Although Ludwig's AI confirms its correct usage, it appears infrequently, and is found in a mix of news, scientific, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the intended meaning of reducing something rather than eliminating it entirely.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reduce the amount

Focuses on decreasing the quantity or size rather than specifically controlling it.

limit the quantity

Emphasizes setting an upper bound on the amount, implying a restriction.

decrease the level

Suggests lowering the intensity or magnitude, not just the physical volume.

lessen the extent

Focuses on diminishing the scope or degree of something, broader than just volume.

moderate the intensity

Implies bringing something to a balanced or controlled level of force.

regulate the quantity

Suggests controlling the amount according to rules or standards.

check the magnitude

Emphasizes verifying or controlling the size or importance.

control the quantity

Highlights the act of managing or directing the amount.

retard the increase

Focuses on slowing down the growth or rise in volume.

keep within limits

Suggests remaining inside some boundaries of quantity.

FAQs

How can I use "curtail the volume" in a sentence?

You can use "curtail the volume" to suggest reducing or limiting the amount of something, such as "The new regulations aim to "curtail the volume" of traffic in the city center".

What are some alternatives to "curtail the volume"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "reduce the amount", "limit the quantity", or "decrease the level".

Is it correct to say "curtail the volume of" something?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase "curtail the volume of" is often followed by the specific item or entity whose amount is being reduced, for example "curtail the volume of asset purchases".

What's the difference between "curtail the volume" and "increase the volume"?

"Curtail the volume" means to decrease or limit the quantity or intensity. In contrast, "increase the volume" means to raise or expand the quantity or intensity.