downsize
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈdaʊnˌsaɪz/
KK: /ˈdaʊnˌsaɪz/
intransitive verb
Definition
To reduce in size or number, especially by eliminating jobs or positions.
Example
Many companies have decided to downsize their workforce to cut costs.
Tense Forms
Past: downsized
Past Participle: downsized
Conversation
I heard that many companies are planning to downsize this year.
Yeah, it's been a tough market lately for a lot of businesses.
It's really sad to see people lose their jobs because of that.
I know, I just hope they can find new opportunities soon.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
shrink
diminish
reduce
Antonyms
expand
increase
grow
transitive verb
Definition
To reduce the number of employees or the size of something, often in a business context, usually to save money or improve efficiency.
Example
The company decided to downsize its workforce to cut costs.
Tense Forms
Past: downsized
Past Participle: downsized
Conversation
I heard they might downsize the team soon.
Really? That's not good news at all.
Yeah, I hope they don't let go of too many people.
Root Explanation
Downsize → It is formed from "down" (meaning to a lower position or level) and "size" (from Old French *size*, meaning dimension or magnitude). The word "downsize" means to reduce in size or scale, particularly in terms of workforce or resources.
Memory Tip
Think of reducing something to a "lower" level or "dimension" — that's why downsize means to make something smaller.
Visually Confused Words
donsie
owenize
adonize