Reduce vs. decrease: what’s the difference?

Reviewed and edited by Anwar Kareem, English.me team · 8 November 2025

The short answer

Reduce generally refers to the act of making something smaller or less in a broader sense and can involve changing form or transforming, while decrease typically focuses on the process of becoming smaller in number or intensity. Reduce is more active and often requires a subject performing the action, whereas decrease can be used passively or actively.

What they have in common

Both reduce and decrease refer to making something smaller or less in amount, degree, or size. They are often used interchangeably when discussing lowering numbers, quantities, or intensities.

Examples

reduce

We need to reduce our expenses this month.
The factory is working to reduce air pollution.
She reduced the amount of sugar in the recipe.

decrease

Sales decreased last year.
The temperature will decrease overnight.
His interest in the project has decreased.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for “reduce” and “decrease”

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