How to Say "reduce" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “reduce” is “reducir” — use 'reducir' when you mean to make something smaller in size, amount, or scope, like cutting down on expenses or shrinking an object..
reducir
reh-doo-SEER/reðuˈθiɾ/
Examples
Tenemos que reducir los gastos del viaje.
We have to reduce the trip expenses.
Si reduces la velocidad, llegaremos tarde.
If you reduce the speed, we will arrive late.
El doctor me aconsejó reducir el consumo de sal.
The doctor advised me to cut down on salt consumption.
The 'Z-C' Change
In the 'yo' form of the present tense, 'reducir' changes the 'c' to 'z' before the 'o': 'reduzco'. This helps the sound stay consistent.
The 'J' Past Tense
In the simple past (preterite), 'reducir' uses a 'j' sound, like 'reduje' (I reduced). This is shared by many verbs ending in -ducir.
Forgetting the 'Z' in Present Tense
Mistake: “Yo reduco los impuestos.”
Correction: Yo reduzco los impuestos. (Remember the 'z' in the first person singular and all of the special wish/command forms.)
Examples
El doctor sugirió que baje su nivel de estrés.
The doctor suggested that he/she lower their stress level.
Examples
Es urgente que bajen los precios de la gasolina.
It is urgent that they lower the gas prices.
Bajar vs. Reducir
Related Translations
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