minimize
Translation
to minimise, to reduce, to downplay
Examples
We need to minimize the risks.
We need to minimise the risks.
He tried to minimize his role in the accident.
He tried to minimise his role in the accident.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to reduce (sth.) to the lowest possible amount We should minimise screen time before bed.
Similar Words
Synonyms: reduce, decrease, lessen; Antonyms: maximize, increase, exaggerate
Etymology
From Latin 'minimus' meaning 'smallest', plus the verb-forming suffix '-ize'. It literally means 'to make smallest'.
Memory Tips
Think 'mini' + '-ize'. The verb means to make something 'mini' or as small as possible.