Definition

Describing something that simplifies or reduces complex ideas or concepts to their basic parts.

Example

The reductive approach in the discussion overlooked many important details.

Conversation

I read an article about art criticism recently.

Oh really? What did it say?

It mentioned how some views can be too reductive when analyzing complex pieces.

That makes sense; sometimes art needs deeper interpretation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Reductive → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again or back) and "ducere" (meaning to lead). The word "reductive" refers to the process of leading back to a simpler form or reducing complexity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'leading back' ('re-') to a simpler state ('ducere') — that's why reductive means simplifying or reducing complexity.

Visually Confused Words