diminished numbers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "diminished numbers" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a reduction in quantity or amount, often in contexts such as demographics, statistics, or resources. Example: "The report indicated that the diminished numbers of participants in the study could affect the overall results."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

With diminished numbers come diminished profits.

The New York Times

Only 40 members, "in diminished numbers," as The Times noted, were willing to gather outside the Mormon Tabernacle for a protest against the church's efforts in 1981.

The New York Times

Recently, diminished numbers of dendritic cells (DCs) were reported in patients with sepsis.

Critical Care

Surprisingly, T -Atg7 −/− mice survived the heterotypic viral challenges despite the vastly diminished numbers of secondary CD8+ Teff.

eLife

The administration of an aminopyridazine compound diminished numbers of activated glial cells and expression of a host of proinflammatory cytokines.

BioMed Research International

Some studies report diminished numbers of these cells in older animals and humans, while other published data argues against such a decline (Collins et al, 2007; Conboy et al, 2003; Renault et al, 2002; Schultz & Lipton, 1982; Shefer et al, 2006).

EMBO Molecular Medicine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"A" group displayed short and fragmented villi, diminished number of lamina propria cells, leucocyte infiltration, higher number of goblet cells and predominance of IL-17 expression.

Toxicology Letters

Rates of brain atrophy on continuous fingolimod treatment were sustained in extension studies, but diminished number of completers might limit interpretability.

Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders

(3) Plin2-N2 also showed partial lipid droplet targeting but diminished number of lipid droplets as compared Plin2-C1 or -C2 expression cells.

Biochemistry

Morgan et al. have also shown diminished number and functional impairment of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in GPA [ 67].

BioMed Research International

But their patients are still with us, if in diminishing numbers with every passing year.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "diminished numbers" when you want to emphasize not just a reduction, but also the negative impact or consequences of that reduction.

Common error

Avoid using "diminished numbers" in situations where a reduction is beneficial or expected. This phrase generally carries a negative connotation, so opt for neutral terms like "reduced figures" or "decreased amounts" when describing positive reductions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "diminished numbers" functions as a noun phrase modified by an adjective. It describes a state of reduction or decrease in quantity. Ludwig examples show its use in scientific and news contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "diminished numbers" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase for describing a reduction in quantity, often with negative connotations. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is most appropriately used in formal and scientific contexts, with news media also being a frequent source. While alternatives like "reduced quantity" or "decreased figures" exist, "diminished numbers" carries a stronger sense of concern or negative impact. Therefore, ensure that the context warrants this connotation when using the phrase. The analysis indicates that the most frequent sources using this phrase are The New York Times, The Guardian and BBC.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reduced quantity

Emphasizes the smaller amount, using a more generic term.

decreased figures

Focuses on the numerical aspect of the reduction.

lower counts

Simple and direct way to express fewer instances.

smaller quantities

Highlights the amount involved, specifying it's less.

reduced population

Applies specifically to a group of people or animals where the count has gone down.

declining figures

Implies an ongoing process of reduction.

wane in numbers

More literary, suggesting a gradual decrease.

falling counts

Suggests an active and ongoing reduction.

shrinking population

Specifically relates to a decrease in the size of a population.

decreasing amounts

Focuses on a reduction in the volume or size.

FAQs

How can I use "diminished numbers" in a sentence?

Use "diminished numbers" to describe a reduction in quantity, often with negative implications. For instance: "The study showed "diminished numbers" of migratory birds due to habitat loss."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "diminished numbers"?

Alternatives include "reduced quantity", "decreased figures", or "lower counts" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "diminished numbers" in formal writing?

Yes, "diminished numbers" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing negative trends or consequences. However, consider the specific context and whether a more neutral term like "reduced numbers" might be more suitable.

What's the difference between "diminished numbers" and "decreasing amounts"?

"Diminished numbers" often implies a negative impact or concern regarding the reduction. "Decreasing amounts" is more neutral and simply refers to a reduction in quantity without necessarily implying negative consequences.