REDUCE TO Meaning and
Definition
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Reduce to is a phrasal verb that has multiple meanings depending on its context. In general terms, it refers to the action of minimizing or diminishing a complex idea, object, or situation into a simpler or more basic form. It involves breaking down something into its fundamental components or decreasing its scale, magnitude, or intensity.
In a literal sense, reduce to can imply transforming a physical object or substance into smaller parts or quantities. For instance, in cooking, reducing a sauce involves simmering it for a prolonged period to evaporate some of its water content and concentrate the flavors. This process results in a thicker and more intense sauce.
On a figurative level, reduce to is often employed to describe the process of simplifying or distilling an abstract concept or problem. It involves breaking it down into its essential elements, making it easier to comprehend or solve. For instance, in mathematics, reducing an equation to its simplest form refers to simplifying or eliminating common factors or terms to make the equation easier to solve.
Additionally, reduce to can also denote a change in status or condition where one's circumstances, position, or reputation are diminished or degraded. For example, a successful businessperson who faces financial difficulties may be reduced to a state of bankruptcy or poverty.
In summary, reduce to encompasses the act of simplification, transformation, or downgrading, whether it applies to a physical entity, abstract idea, or personal situation.
Common Misspellings for REDUCE TO
- eeduce to
- deduce to
- feduce to
- teduce to
- 5educe to
- 4educe to
- rwduce to
- rsduce to
- rdduce to
- rrduce to
- r4duce to
- r3duce to
- resuce to
- rexuce to
- recuce to
- refuce to
- reruce to
- reeuce to
- redyce to
- redhce to
Etymology of REDUCE TO
The word "reduce" comes from the Latin verb "reducere", which is derived from the combination of "re-" (meaning back, again) and "ducere" (meaning to lead or bring). In its original Latin form, "reducere" referred to bringing something back or leading it again. Over time, the meaning expanded to include the sense of bringing something down or diminishing it. The phrase "reduce to" indicates the act of bringing an object, condition, or state to a lower or simpler form.
Idioms with the word REDUCE TO
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reduce to tears
To cause someone to cry or become very emotional; to make someone cry or weep.
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