minimize

[min-uh-mahyz] / ˈmɪn əˌmaɪz /

VERB

make smaller; underrate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

curtail decrease diminish downplay lessen play down reduce trivialize underestimate

STRONG

abbreviate attenuate belittle cheapen decry deprecate depreciate derogate detract discount disparage dwarf knock miniaturize pan pooh-pooh prune shrink underplay

WEAK

cut down to size knock down make light of make little of poor-mouth put down run down

Antonyms

STRONGEST

develop enlarge expand extend grow increase lengthen prolong raise strengthen

STRONG

approve build up commend compliment exalt laud praise

WEAK

maximize overestimate overrate

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“The complexity needed if you want to minimize estate taxes is still best served today by an attorney,” he says.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 2026

She added BP had been "working with customers and governments to get fuel where it's needed, helping minimize disruption and the impact it can have on people's lives".

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

I want to determine what to withdraw from which accounts to minimize taxation, while perhaps converting some of the traditional IRA to Roth for future benefit, though that would increase taxable income.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 27, 2026

“Either intentionally or not, really helps minimize sensory overload.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 27, 2026

Their explanation that “the Good Book say, ‘Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, and be exceedingly glad’ ” did not in the least minimize the condescension of their fellow Christians.

From "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou

Vocabulary lists containing minimize

Words to Know Before You Defrost the Bird

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

List 3

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Kindred

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!