reduce the ability

USAGE SUMMARY

"reduce the ability" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a situation where someone's potential or power has been weakened, for example, "The heavy workload has reduced the ability of the team to make meaningful progress."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Multiple antibiotics are given to reduce the ability of the bacteria to develop resistance.

The New York Times - Health

Puntofijismo was designed to marginalize the left and reduce the ability of minor parties to grow.

The New Yorker

They might reduce the ability of governments to buy off trouble.

The Economist

It also sought to reduce the ability of environmentalists to file awkward lawsuits.

The Economist

Cutting the number of tax collectors will reduce the ability to track down tax dodgers.

Independent

The Republicans oppose gay rights and support laws intended to reduce the ability of unions to organize.

The New York Times

The vaccine will prevent someone from getting it, and possibly reduce the ability of a carrier to spread it.

The New York Times - Health

Backers say the pools are designed to reduce the ability of investors to front-run large orders.

The Economist

If the government starts awarding funds to the lowest bidder, it would reduce the ability of surgical suppliers to stay in business.

The New York Times

The intent of the laws is to reduce the ability of executives to profit, at least initially, from the decision to convert.

The New York Times

These animo acid replacements significantly reduce the ability of cardiac glycosides from binding to, and thereby inhibiting, the action of the sodium-potassium exchange pump.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "reduce the ability", ensure the context clearly specifies what is being affected and the cause of the reduction. This prevents ambiguity and strengthens the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "reduce the ability" without specifying the particular ability being diminished. For instance, instead of saying "the policy reduces ability", clarify with "the policy reduces the ability to innovate".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reduce the ability" functions primarily as a verb phrase that expresses the action of diminishing or weakening a particular capacity or skill. Ludwig AI provides examples that demonstrate its use across various contexts, indicating a broad applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

54%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "reduce the ability" is a versatile expression used to describe the act of diminishing someone or something's capacity to perform a task. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across diverse fields, particularly in science and news media. It’s crucial to provide context when using the phrase, specifying what ability is being reduced to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "diminish the capacity" or "weaken the power" can be used for stylistic variation. Understanding the nuances of this phrase ensures clear and effective communication in both formal and informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lessen the capability

Highlights a decrease in overall potential.

diminish the capacity

Focuses on a reduction in inherent potential or volume.

weaken the power

Emphasizes making something less potent or influential.

hinder the potential

Indicates an obstruction to future development or success.

impair the skill

Highlights a negative effect on a learned proficiency.

undermine the competence

Suggests a gradual erosion of effectiveness or expertise.

compromise the talent

Indicates a risk to the quality or effectiveness of a natural gift.

curtail the aptitude

Implies limiting a natural talent or inclination.

degrade the proficiency

Highlights a decline in the level of skill or expertise.

cripple the faculty

Suggests severe damage to a specific mental or physical power.

FAQs

How can I use "reduce the ability" in a sentence?

You can use "reduce the ability" to describe actions or conditions that diminish someone's capacity to perform a task. For example, "Lack of sleep can "reduce the ability" to concentrate".

What's a formal alternative to "reduce the ability"?

In a more formal context, consider using phrases like "diminish the capacity", "impair the skill", or "lessen the capability" instead of ""reduce the ability"".

Which is more appropriate: "reduce the ability" or "decrease the ability"?

"Reduce the ability" and "decrease the ability" are largely interchangeable. However, "reduce" might suggest a bringing down from a higher level, while "decrease" indicates a general lessening.

What does it mean to "reduce the ability" of something?

To ""reduce the ability"" of something means to make it less capable or effective in performing a particular function or task. It implies a weakening or impairment of its potential.