scale down

USAGE SUMMARY

"scale down" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used in the context of reducing the size of something, either literally (e.g. "The museum has decided to scale down their exhibit") or figuratively (e.g. "The company has decided to scale down its operations").

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

"You can scale up or scale down motion.

The New York Times - Science

They could scale down their presence in the presidential palace.

The Economist

"Maybe they could scale down a bit," he said.

The New York Times

"You scale down as time goes on," she said.

The New York Times

The brand will also scale down from four catwalk shows a year to two.

The Guardian - Business

Nor were decisions to significantly scale down operations limited to the New York area.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

"It depends from $1.5 billion to what, what is the scale-down?" Mr. Rose said.

The New York Times - Arts

This procedure is referred to as scale-down.

Journal of Biotechnology

(2) CFD-based scale-down design, where we design a 1-vessel scale down simulator based on the organism lifelines.

Chemical Engineering Science

(3) Scale-down verification, numerically comparing the model response in the proposed scale-down simulator with large-scale CFD response.

Chemical Engineering Science

Figure 3 Scale-down assay for GLP1R activation by yeast-secreted peptides.

AMB Express

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a strategic shift in business operations, use "scale down" to convey a deliberate reduction in activities or investment. For instance: "Due to market changes, the company decided to "scale down" its international operations."

Common error

Avoid using "scale down" when the intent is to completely eliminate something. "Scale down" implies a reduction in size or scope, not total removal. For complete elimination, use phrases like "eliminate", "remove", or "discontinue".

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "scale down" functions primarily as a dynamic verb, indicating an action or process of reduction. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Examples show it modifying nouns related to operations, budgets, and physical dimensions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

38%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "scale down" is a versatile phrasal verb used to describe the act of reducing something in size, scope, or intensity. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various communications. When using "scale down", ensure the context aligns with the intent of reduction rather than complete elimination. Alternative phrases like ""reduce in size"" or ""cut back"" may offer subtle nuances depending on the specific meaning you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reduce in size

Focuses specifically on the physical dimension being lessened.

decrease in scope

Emphasizes a narrowing of the area or extent covered.

cut back

Implies a reduction in spending or resources.

downsize

Often used in business contexts to describe reducing the workforce or operations.

pare down

Suggests removing unnecessary elements to make something simpler or smaller.

trim

Implies a slight reduction or adjustment.

contract

Suggests a shrinking or becoming smaller.

lessen

A general term for making something less.

minify

Implies making something extremely small.

abridge

Refers to shortening something, typically a text or story.

FAQs

How can I use "scale down" in a sentence?

"Scale down" is a phrasal verb that means to reduce in size, extent, or intensity. For example, "The company plans to "scale down" its operations in Europe" or "We need to "scale down" the project budget".

What is a synonym for "scale down"?

Synonyms for "scale down" include "reduce in size", "decrease in scope", "cut back", or "downsize" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "scale down" and "downsize"?

While both phrases involve reduction, ""scale down"" generally refers to a reduction in scope or intensity, whereas ""downsize"" often specifically implies a reduction in the number of employees or the size of a company.

Is it correct to say "scale down on" something?

While not technically incorrect, it is more common and grammatically sound to simply say ""scale down"" something. The preposition "on" is usually unnecessary.