significantly diminish

USAGE SUMMARY

"significantly diminish" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing a notable reduction in size, amount, or importance. Example: "The new policy is expected to significantly diminish the impact of pollution." Alternative expressions include "greatly reduce" and "substantially lessen."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He noted that high-efficiency washers and dryers can significantly diminish stress on a building's plumbing systems.

The New York Times

The government argues that this is a misinterpretation that "could significantly diminish the statute's usefulness as a tool for combating terrorism-related offenses".

The New York Times

He also acknowledged that the prospect of a Bush administration may significantly diminish the impact of the studies on future policy makers.

The New York Times

All of them know that the lottery of where a child's surname occurs in the alphabet can significantly diminish their future life prospects for good.

The Guardian - Opinion

They unanimously adopted a positive report on the matter, saying that the new measures "will not significantly diminish the perception of any of these areas as streets".

The New York Times

Pfizer, which said it did not expect the sales to significantly diminish its performance, put expected savings from the merger at a minimum $1.6 billion by 2002.

The New York Times

Though the suicide attempt rate among gay men and lesbians goes down markedly as people get older, attempt rates don't significantly diminish for older trans people.

The Guardian - Opinion

Film-maker David Puttnam has raised concerns that the government is bowing to pressure from vested interests to significantly diminish the BBC.

The Guardian

In February, Mr. Walker proposed a "budget repair bill" that would cut benefits to state workers and significantly diminish future collective-bargaining rights for most public employees.

The New York Times

But agronomists say that heavy erosion in unprotected areas can significantly diminish crop yields, and, over time, land that is not well cared for can become depleted.

The New York Times

Winds meet with little resistance over the flat country, though the hills in the south significantly diminish the velocity of the potent wind that prevails along the coast.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "significantly diminish" when you want to emphasize a considerable reduction or weakening effect. This phrase is suitable for formal writing and adds a sense of importance to the degree of reduction.

Common error

While "significantly diminish" is grammatically correct, overuse in informal conversations can make your speech sound overly formal. Opt for simpler alternatives like "reduce a lot" or "weaken considerably" in casual settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "significantly diminish" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the action of something being reduced or weakened to a notable extent. Ludwig AI examples show it frequently used to describe impacts on various entities, such as resources, performance, or quality.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

37%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "significantly diminish" is a grammatically correct and frequently used verb phrase that conveys a considerable reduction or weakening. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across various domains, particularly in science and news media. While suitable for formal contexts, it might be too formal for casual conversation. Consider alternatives like "significantly reduce" or "greatly lessen" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When employing this phrase, ensure the context warrants emphasizing a substantial reduction, as it adds a sense of importance to the described effect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significantly reduce

Focuses more on the quantitative aspect of reduction, implying a measurable decrease.

significantly decrease

Similar to reduce, but often used when referring to a progressive lessening over time.

significantly weaken

Highlights the aspect of becoming less powerful or effective.

significantly lessen

Implies a reduction in intensity or severity.

considerably curtail

Suggests a restriction or limitation that is quite noticeable.

appreciably curtail

Like 'considerably curtail' implies a noticeable restriction, but with a slightly lighter touch.

substantially curtail

Similar to 'considerably curtail' but it stresses the importance of the cut.

substantially undermine

Focuses on weakening the foundation or basis of something.

markedly alleviate

Emphasizes the relief or easing of a burden or problem.

noticeably abate

Suggests a reduction in intensity or degree that is easily observed.

FAQs

How can I use "significantly diminish" in a sentence?

The phrase "significantly diminish" is used to describe a considerable reduction or weakening. For example, "The new regulations will significantly diminish the company's profits."

What are some alternatives to "significantly diminish"?

You can use alternatives such as "significantly reduce", "significantly weaken", or "significantly lessen" depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to use "significantly diminish" or "greatly diminish"?

Both "significantly diminish" and "greatly diminish" are correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice depends on personal preference and the specific tone you want to achieve. "Significantly" may sound slightly more formal than "greatly".

What's the difference between "significantly diminish" and "slightly diminish"?

"Significantly diminish" indicates a notable and substantial reduction, while "slightly diminish" suggests only a small or minor reduction. The choice depends on the extent of the decrease you want to describe.