How to pronounce reduce
Say it like ruh-DOOS. Reduce has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (DOOS).
- ruh
- DOOS
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Reduce pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- ruhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- DOOSSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "oo" in food.
American vs British pronunciation of reduce
- British speakers add a light "y" sound before the "oo" (as in "tyoon" for tune).
British respelling: rih-DYOOS.
What does reduce mean?
- To bring down the size, quantity, quality, value or intensity of something; to diminish, to lower.“to reduce weight, speed, heat, expenses, price, personnel etc.”
- To lose weight.
- To bring to an inferior rank; to degrade, to demote.“to reduce a sergeant to the ranks”
Where does reduce come from?
From Middle English reducen, from Old French reduire, from Latin redūcō (“reduce”); from re- (“back”) + dūcō (“lead”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Opposite meaning
Words that rhyme with reduce
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of reduce.
Questions about saying reduce
How do you pronounce reduce?
Say ruh-DOOS. The American pronunciation is /rəˈdus/. In British English it is /rɪˈdjuːs/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in reduce?
Reduce has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (DOOS). Broken into parts: ruh · DOOS.
Is reduce pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. British speakers add a light "y" sound before the "oo" (as in "tyoon" for tune). The British form is /rɪˈdjuːs/ (rih-DYOOS).