minimize

verb [T] (UK usually minimise)

/ˈmɪn.ɪ.maɪz/

Definition

C1 to reduce something to the least possible level or amount: We must minimize the risk of infection. Environmentalists are doing everything within their power to minimize the impact of the oil spill. → Opposite maximizeBecoming and making smaller or lessBecoming and making less strong › to make something seem less important or smaller than it really is: She accused the government of minimizing the suffering of thousands of people. It's important to focus on your strengths and to minimize your weaknesses.Exaggerating and playing downPraising and applauding minimization

/ˌmɪn.ɪ.maɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/

/-məˈ-/ noun [U] Becoming and making smaller or lessBecoming and making less strong

(Definition of minimize verb from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus © Cambridge University Press)

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