decrease the amount

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "decrease the amount" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a decrease in quantity or size. For example: "We need to decrease the amount of paper waste in our office."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Decrease the amount of paperwork teachers deal with and enforce current restrictions on class limits.

The Guardian

"We will never decrease the amount we have at risk, invested in the corporation," Mr. Tate said.

The New York Times

Rising temperatures threaten to increase health problems, such as heat stroke, and decrease the amount of available freshwater.

The Guardian

This would decrease the amount of virus in the host.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

The shirt comes with a sensitivity dial to increase or decrease the amount of dancing the girl does.

TechCrunch

But dimebon didn't decrease the amount of amyloid produced by mouse brain cells in a dish.

Forbes

Molded rubber engine mounts and other suspension products help decrease the amount of vehicle vibration.

Forbes

Opioids decrease the amount of time it takes food to move through the digestive tract.

Huffington Post

Use one or both legs to increase or decrease the amount of support.

Huffington Post

Improper technique or weakness can decrease the amount of energy absorbed by the muscles.

Huffington Post

And it's likely to decrease the amount of salt, sugar, calories, and unhealthy fats.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for brevity, use "reduce" instead of "decrease the amount" to streamline your sentences.

Common error

Avoid using passive constructions like "the amount was decreased". Opt for active voice, such as "we decreased the amount", for clearer and more direct communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "decrease the amount" functions as a verb phrase expressing an action that reduces a quantity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase for referring to a reduction in size or quantity. Examples show its applicability across diverse domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

40%

News & Media

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "decrease the amount" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression for indicating a reduction in quantity or size. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's suitable for diverse contexts, from formal writing to everyday communication. While alternatives like "reduce the quantity" or simply "reduce" exist, "decrease the amount" remains a versatile and acceptable choice. Key considerations include opting for active voice and choosing the most concise wording when appropriate. With its common usage in Wiki articles, news media, and scientific literature, this phrase demonstrates broad applicability across various domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reduce the amount

A direct synonym, focusing on making the quantity smaller.

decrease the quantity

Replaces "amount" with "quantity", maintaining the same meaning but with a slightly more formal tone.

diminish the amount

Implies a gradual reduction, often suggesting a lessening in importance or significance.

shrink the amount

Implies a reduction in size or volume, often used when physical dimensions are involved.

lessen the amount

A straightforward alternative, emphasizing a reduction in degree or intensity.

decrease the sum

Focuses on reducing a total or aggregate.

decrease the volume

Specifically refers to reducing the volumetric size or capacity.

decline the amount

Suggests a gradual decrease, often in a numerical or measurable context.

fall the amount

Similar to decline, indicating a downward trend in quantity.

recede the amount

Implies a withdrawal or retreat of a certain quantity.

FAQs

How can I use "decrease the amount" in a sentence?

You can use "decrease the amount" to indicate a reduction in quantity. For example, "We need to "reduce the amount" of sugar in our diet."

What are some alternatives to "decrease the amount"?

Alternatives include phrases like "reduce the quantity", "lessen the amount", or simply "reduce" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "decrease the amount of" or "reduce the amount of"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably. "Reduce the amount" is often preferred for its brevity, while "decrease the amount" may sound slightly more formal.

In what contexts is "decrease the amount" most appropriate?

"Decrease the amount" is suitable for various contexts where you want to express a reduction in quantity, such as in discussions about diet, waste reduction, or resource management. The appropriateness depends on the specific situation and desired level of formality.