devalue
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɪˈvæljuː/
KK: /dɪˈvælju/
intransitive verb
Definition
To reduce the worth or value of something, often in terms of currency or assets.
Example
The government decided to devalue the currency to boost exports.
Tense Forms
Past: devalued
Past Participle: devalued
Conversation
Have you heard how the economy might devalue our currency soon?
Yeah, I read about that! It’s worrying.
I wonder how that will affect our savings if it does devalue.
Definitely, we should keep an eye on it.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
diminish
reduce
depreciate
Antonyms
appreciate
increase
enhance
transitive verb
Definition
To reduce or eliminate the worth or importance of something.
Example
The government decided to devalue the currency to boost exports.
Tense Forms
Past: devalued
Past Participle: devalued
Conversation
Have you heard about the recent changes in the economy?
Yeah, I read that some countries are starting to devalue their currencies.
It's concerning because it can really impact international trade.
Root Explanation
Devalue → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "valere" (meaning to be strong or to be worth). The word "devalue" means to reduce the worth or strength of something.
Memory Tip
Think of reducing something's worth or strength — 'de-' means down, and 'valere' means to be worth.
Visually Confused Words
evalue
revalue
value
undervalue
prevalue
evaluate
disvalue
devolute