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A2 verb #1,500 よく出る 14分で読める

reduzieren

上位1,500

At the A1 beginner level, the verb 'reduzieren' is introduced primarily in the context of shopping and basic daily life. It means 'to reduce' or 'to make smaller'. The most important thing for a beginner to know is that when a shop has a sale, they 'reduzieren' the prices. You will see signs that say 'reduziert', which means 'discounted' or 'on sale'. This is very helpful for saving money! Grammatically, it is a regular verb. You conjugate it like this: ich reduziere, du reduzierst, er/sie/es reduziert, wir reduzieren, ihr reduziert, sie/Sie reduzieren. It is very similar to the English word 'reduce', which makes it easy to remember. You use it when you want to say that something is becoming less. For example, if you want to eat less sugar, you can say 'Ich reduziere den Zucker'. It is an action word, so you are actively doing something to make a quantity smaller. Remember that it needs an object; you have to say *what* you are reducing. In the past tense, it is 'hat reduziert'. Notice there is no 'ge-' at the beginning of the past participle. This is a special rule for verbs ending in '-ieren'. Learning this word early on helps you understand advertisements, basic instructions, and simple conversations about changing amounts or prices in your new German environment.

At the A2 level, your understanding of 'reduzieren' expands beyond just shopping. You start using it to talk about lifestyle, health, and everyday problems. It still means 'to reduce', but now you can apply it to more abstract concepts. For instance, you might talk about wanting to 'Stress reduzieren' (reduce stress) at work or 'Müll reduzieren' (reduce waste) at home. It becomes a key verb for expressing intentions to improve your life or the environment. You will practice using it in sentences with modal verbs, such as 'Wir müssen die Kosten reduzieren' (We must reduce the costs) or 'Ich will mein Gewicht reduzieren' (I want to reduce my weight). This shows that you can combine it with other grammatical structures. You should also be comfortable using it in the perfect tense: 'Ich habe meinen Kaffeekonsum reduziert' (I have reduced my coffee consumption). Remember the rule: no 'ge-' prefix for '-ieren' verbs! You might also encounter it in simple passive sentences, like 'Der Preis wird reduziert' (The price is being reduced). At this stage, 'reduzieren' is a tool for describing active changes you are making in your routines, habits, and expenses, allowing for more detailed and personal conversations.

At the B1 intermediate level, 'reduzieren' becomes a crucial vocabulary word for discussing broader societal and environmental issues, which are common topics in B1 exams. You will use it to articulate opinions and facts about ecology, economy, and health on a larger scale. Phrases like 'den CO2-Ausstoß reduzieren' (reduce CO2 emissions), 'den Energieverbrauch reduzieren' (reduce energy consumption), and 'die Arbeitslosigkeit reduzieren' (reduce unemployment) become part of your active vocabulary. You are expected to use it in more complex sentence structures, including subordinate clauses: 'Es ist wichtig, dass wir unseren Plastikmüll reduzieren' (It is important that we reduce our plastic waste). You will also start using synonyms like 'verringern' or 'senken' to avoid repetition and show a richer vocabulary. Furthermore, you should understand its use in the culinary context, such as 'die Soße reduzieren' (to reduce the sauce). The reflexive use might also appear: 'Das Problem reduziert sich auf...' (The problem boils down to...). Mastery at this level means you can seamlessly integrate 'reduzieren' into discussions about current events, personal goals, and general advice, using it accurately in various tenses and sentence forms without hesitation.

At the B2 upper-intermediate level, the usage of 'reduzieren' becomes highly nuanced and abstract. You are expected to use it in professional, academic, and formal contexts. It is no longer just about prices or physical quantities; it's about mitigating risks ('Risiken reduzieren'), streamlining processes ('Komplexität reduzieren'), and analyzing data. You will frequently encounter and use it in passive voice constructions, especially in written German or formal presentations: 'Die Ausgaben müssen drastisch reduziert werden' (Expenses must be drastically reduced). You should also be comfortable with noun forms derived from the verb, such as 'die Reduzierung' or 'die Reduktion' (the reduction), and use them in complex prepositional phrases. For example, 'Zur Reduzierung der Fehlerquote...' (For the reduction of the error rate...). The reflexive usage 'sich reduzieren auf' (to be reduced to / to boil down to) is expected to be part of your active repertoire for summarizing arguments or identifying core issues. You will also understand subtle differences between 'reduzieren' and its synonyms (e.g., abbauen, einschränken, drosseln) and choose the most appropriate word based on the specific professional or academic context you are navigating.

At the C1 advanced level, 'reduzieren' is utilized with near-native precision, often embedded in complex, multi-clause sentences and sophisticated rhetorical structures. You use it to discuss systemic changes, statistical analyses, and theoretical concepts. It appears frequently in academic papers, high-level business reports, and political discourse. You are adept at using it with a wide range of adverbs to express exact degrees of change, such as 'signifikant reduzieren', 'sukzessive reduzieren', or 'auf ein Minimum reduzieren'. You understand and employ idiomatic extensions and metaphorical uses. The distinction between 'Reduzierung' (the act of reducing) and 'Reduktion' (often the result or a more scientific term, like in chemistry) is clear to you. You can effortlessly switch between active, passive, and reflexive forms depending on the focus of your sentence. In debates, you might use it to critique an opponent's argument: 'Sie reduzieren das komplexe Problem auf eine einzige Ursache' (You are reducing the complex problem to a single cause). At this level, the word is a precise instrument for analytical thought, strategic planning, and sophisticated argumentation, demonstrating your deep command of the German language's structural and semantic capabilities.

At the C2 mastery level, your use of 'reduzieren' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You wield the word effortlessly across all registers, from the most esoteric academic texts to literary prose. You appreciate the etymological roots of the word and how it influences its modern application. You use it in highly specialized contexts, such as philosophical reductionism ('auf das Wesentliche reduzieren') or advanced scientific paradigms. You are capable of playing with the word's meaning, using it ironically or subversively in creative writing or high-level rhetoric. The grammatical execution is flawless, including the most complex subjunctive and passive constructions. You intuitively know when 'reduzieren' is the absolute perfect word choice compared to a dozen other synonyms, based on rhythm, tone, and subtle semantic shading. You can deconstruct texts that use the word, analyzing the author's intent behind choosing 'reduzieren' over 'verringern' or 'minimieren'. At this pinnacle of language proficiency, 'reduzieren' is not just a vocabulary item; it is a fully integrated conceptual tool that you use to articulate the most complex and nuanced ideas about diminution, simplification, and essentialism in the German language.

練習する例文メモとヒント

reduzieren 30秒で

The verb reduzieren is an essential German vocabulary word that means to reduce, decrease, or cut down, commonly used in shopping, health, and environmental contexts.
You will frequently encounter this versatile verb in everyday situations, such as when stores lower their prices during sales or when discussing dietary changes.
Grammatically, it is a regular weak verb ending in -ieren, which means it forms its past participle without the ge- prefix, simply becoming reduziert.
Mastering this word allows you to effectively communicate about minimizing waste, lowering stress levels, decreasing speed, and simplifying various aspects of your daily life.

The German verb 'reduzieren' is an incredibly versatile and frequently used word that translates primarily to 'reduce', 'decrease', or 'cut down' in English. Understanding the full spectrum of its meaning requires us to look at various contexts where this action of making something smaller or less in amount, degree, or size is applied. When we talk about shopping and retail, 'reduzieren' is the go-to verb for discounts. You will often see signs in shop windows declaring that items are 'reduziert', meaning their prices have been slashed. This is a crucial concept for anyone looking to save money while living in or visiting a German-speaking country. Beyond the realm of commerce, 'reduzieren' plays a massive role in environmental discussions. We constantly hear about the need to reduce waste, reduce carbon emissions, and reduce plastic consumption. In these contexts, the word carries a weight of responsibility and sustainability. Furthermore, in the context of personal health and well-being, people often strive to reduce stress or reduce weight. Here, the verb is associated with self-improvement and lifestyle changes. The culinary world also relies heavily on this verb; when a chef tells you to reduce the sauce, they mean to boil it down so that the water evaporates, leaving a thicker, more flavorful liquid. In mathematics and physics, 'reduzieren' can refer to simplifying fractions or decreasing velocity. The sheer breadth of its application makes it a cornerstone of both everyday conversation and specialized jargon. To truly grasp what it means, one must recognize that 'reduzieren' is not just about making things smaller; it is about optimization, efficiency, and intentional change. Whether you are a business owner trying to reduce costs to increase profit margins, or a minimalist attempting to reduce possessions for a simpler life, the core action remains the same. The prefix 're-' suggests a backward motion or a return to a previous state, while the root 'ducere' means to lead. Thus, to reduce is to lead back, to bring down to a lower level. This etymological background helps solidify the concept in the learner's mind. As you continue to encounter this word, pay attention to the direct objects it takes. It is a transitive verb, meaning it almost always requires an object. You reduce something. You cannot simply 'reduce' in a vacuum in German; there must be a target for the reduction. This target can be abstract, like risk or dependency, or concrete, like speed or sugar. The beauty of 'reduzieren' lies in its universal applicability. It bridges the gap between the physical and the abstract, the professional and the personal. By mastering this single verb, you unlock the ability to express a fundamental human endeavor: the attempt to control and diminish the negative or excessive aspects of our world. Therefore, whenever you encounter a situation where less is more, where a decrease is desired or observed, 'reduzieren' is likely the verb you need. It is a word of action, of modification, and of deliberate intent. From the smallest personal habits to the largest global initiatives, the act of reducing is everywhere, and so is the word 'reduzieren'.

Meaning in Commerce: In retail, it specifically means lowering the price of goods, often seen during sales events.

Meaning in Ecology: It refers to the conscious effort to minimize waste and environmental footprint.

Meaning in Health: It denotes the process of lowering intake of harmful substances or reducing body weight.

Wir müssen unsere Ausgaben reduzieren.

Der Supermarkt wird die Preise reduzieren.

Er möchte seinen Stress reduzieren.

Sie versucht, den Zucker zu reduzieren.

Bitte die Geschwindigkeit reduzieren.

Using the verb 'reduzieren' correctly in German involves understanding its grammatical properties and the typical sentence structures it inhabits. As a regular weak verb, its conjugation is straightforward and predictable, making it highly accessible for learners at the A2 level and beyond. In the present tense, it follows the standard endings: ich reduziere, du reduzierst, er/sie/es reduziert, wir reduzieren, ihr reduziert, sie/Sie reduzieren. The most critical grammatical feature to remember is that it is a transitive verb. This means that the action of reducing must be applied to something; it requires a direct object in the accusative case. For example, you cannot simply say 'Ich reduziere' (I reduce) and leave it at that, unless the context is overwhelmingly clear from a previous sentence. You must specify what is being reduced: 'Ich reduziere den Preis' (I reduce the price), 'Wir reduzieren die Kosten' (We reduce the costs), or 'Sie reduzieren den Müll' (They reduce the waste). The accusative object is the target of the reduction. Another essential aspect of using 'reduzieren' is its behavior in the perfect tense. Because it is a verb ending in the suffix '-ieren' (a common marker for verbs of Latin or French origin), it does not take the 'ge-' prefix when forming the past participle. Therefore, the past participle is simply 'reduziert', not 'gereduziert'. The auxiliary verb used to form the perfect tense is 'haben'. So, 'I have reduced' translates to 'Ich habe reduziert'. This rule applies universally to all '-ieren' verbs, such as 'studieren' (studiert), 'reparieren' (repariert), and 'informieren' (informiert). In more advanced usage, 'reduzieren' can also be used reflexively, often with the preposition 'auf' (to). 'Sich reduzieren auf' means 'to be reduced to' or 'to boil down to'. For instance, 'Das Problem reduziert sich auf eine Frage des Geldes' translates to 'The problem boils down to a question of money'. This reflexive usage is particularly common in academic, professional, or analytical contexts where complex situations are being simplified to their core components. Furthermore, 'reduzieren' is frequently used in passive constructions, especially in business and news reporting. 'Die Preise wurden reduziert' (The prices were reduced) or 'Das Personal muss reduziert werden' (The staff must be reduced) are standard ways to express that a reduction has occurred without necessarily specifying who performed the action. When giving instructions or advice, the imperative form is highly useful: 'Reduzieren Sie Ihren Zuckerkonsum!' (Reduce your sugar intake!). In summary, mastering 'reduzieren' requires attention to its transitive nature, its specific past participle formation, and its potential for reflexive and passive applications. By practicing these structures, learners can significantly enhance their ability to discuss changes, optimizations, and decreases in a wide variety of contexts, from everyday shopping to complex problem-solving.

Transitive Usage: Requires an accusative object, e.g., den Preis reduzieren.

Perfect Tense: Forms the past participle without 'ge-', resulting in 'hat reduziert'.

Reflexive Usage: Used with 'auf' to mean 'boils down to', e.g., sich auf etwas reduzieren.

Ich habe meine Arbeitszeit reduziert.

Wir müssen das Risiko reduzieren.

Das Problem reduziert sich auf fehlende Kommunikation.

Die Firma hat die Produktion reduziert.

Bitte reduzieren Sie die Lautstärke.

The verb 'reduzieren' is ubiquitous in the German-speaking world, appearing across a vast array of contexts ranging from casual daily interactions to highly formal professional environments. One of the most common places you will encounter this word is in the retail sector. Walk down any shopping street in Germany, Austria, or Switzerland during sale seasons like the 'Sommerschlussverkauf' (summer sale) or 'Winterschlussverkauf' (winter sale), and you will be bombarded with signs displaying the word 'reduziert'. It is the standard term used to indicate that merchandise has been marked down. Clothing, electronics, groceries—if the price is lower than usual, it is 'reduziert'. Beyond the high street, 'reduzieren' is a staple in news broadcasts and journalistic writing. Economic reports frequently discuss the need for companies to 'Kosten reduzieren' (reduce costs) or 'Personal reduzieren' (reduce staff) during financial downturns. Environmental news is another major domain for this verb. Discussions about climate change, sustainability, and ecological responsibility constantly feature phrases like 'CO2-Ausstoß reduzieren' (reduce CO2 emissions), 'Plastikmüll reduzieren' (reduce plastic waste), and 'Energieverbrauch reduzieren' (reduce energy consumption). In the healthcare and medical fields, doctors and nutritionists regularly advise patients to 'Gewicht reduzieren' (reduce weight), 'Blutdruck reduzieren' (reduce blood pressure), or 'Zuckerkonsum reduzieren' (reduce sugar intake). In these contexts, the word is tied to health optimization and disease prevention. The culinary arts also employ 'reduzieren' as a technical term. Cooking shows and recipes will instruct you to 'die Soße reduzieren lassen', which means allowing a liquid to simmer and evaporate until it thickens and its flavors intensify. In the realm of traffic and transportation, road signs or navigation systems might instruct drivers to 'Geschwindigkeit reduzieren' (reduce speed) when approaching construction zones or hazardous conditions. Even in the abstract world of mathematics and science, 'reduzieren' is used to describe the simplification of equations or the decreasing of physical forces. Because it is such a functional and descriptive word, it transcends specific jargons and is understood by everyone. Whether you are reading a complex financial analysis, listening to a lifestyle podcast about minimalism, or simply looking for a bargain at the local supermarket, 'reduzieren' is a word that constantly shapes the narrative of making things smaller, fewer, or less intense. Its widespread use makes it an absolutely essential vocabulary item for anyone aiming for fluency in German, as it unlocks comprehension across dozens of different everyday and specialized scenarios.

Retail Context: Used extensively to advertise sales and discounted merchandise.

Environmental Context: Central to discussions about lowering emissions and minimizing waste.

Medical Context: Frequently used by doctors advising patients to lower weight or stress.

Alle Winterjacken sind stark reduziert.

Wir müssen den CO2-Ausstoß drastisch reduzieren.

Der Arzt sagte, ich soll mein Gewicht reduzieren.

Lassen Sie die Soße für zehn Minuten reduzieren.

Bei Nebel müssen Sie die Geschwindigkeit reduzieren.

While 'reduzieren' is a relatively straightforward regular verb, learners of German often make a few predictable mistakes when using it. The most prevalent error relates to the formation of the past participle in the perfect tense. Because the infinitive ends in '-ieren', a suffix common to verbs borrowed from Latin or French, it does not follow the standard German rule of adding the 'ge-' prefix. Many beginners instinctively say or write 'gereduziert', applying the rule they learned for words like 'gemacht' or 'gespielt'. However, the correct form is simply 'reduziert'. Saying 'Ich habe gereduziert' is grammatically incorrect and immediately marks the speaker as a novice. Another frequent mistake involves the verb's transitivity. 'Reduzieren' almost always requires a direct object in the accusative case. You cannot just say 'Die Preise reduzieren' to mean 'The prices are reducing' (intransitive). In German, prices do not reduce themselves; they are reduced by someone. Therefore, you must use a passive construction: 'Die Preise werden reduziert' (The prices are being reduced) or use it reflexively if appropriate, though passive is much more common for prices. Failing to provide the accusative object when using it actively leads to incomplete and confusing sentences. Additionally, learners sometimes confuse 'reduzieren' with 'abnehmen'. While both can translate to 'reduce' or 'decrease' in English, they are used differently in German. 'Abnehmen' is often used intransitively to describe a natural decrease or weight loss (e.g., 'Der Wind nimmt ab' - The wind is decreasing; 'Ich habe abgenommen' - I have lost weight). 'Reduzieren', on the other hand, implies a deliberate, active effort to make something smaller (e.g., 'Ich habe mein Gewicht reduziert' - I have actively reduced my weight). Using 'reduzieren' when 'abnehmen' is more natural can make the sentence sound overly technical or formal. Finally, prepositional usage can be tricky. When expressing what something is reduced *to*, the correct preposition is 'auf' with the accusative case, not 'zu'. For example, 'Der Preis ist auf 10 Euro reduziert' (The price is reduced to 10 euros). Using 'zu 10 Euro' is a direct, incorrect translation from English. By being mindful of the past participle formation, the need for a direct object, the distinction from 'abnehmen', and the correct preposition 'auf', learners can avoid the most common pitfalls associated with this essential verb and use it with confidence and accuracy.

The 'ge-' Prefix Error: Adding 'ge-' to the past participle (gereduziert) is incorrect. It must be 'reduziert'.

Missing Object: Forgetting that it is a transitive verb and requires an accusative object.

Wrong Preposition: Using 'zu' instead of 'auf' when saying something is reduced 'to' a certain amount.

Falsch: Ich habe gereduziert. Richtig: Ich habe reduziert.

Falsch: Der Preis reduziert. Richtig: Der Preis wird reduziert.

Falsch: Reduziert zu 5 Euro. Richtig: Reduziert auf 5 Euro.

Wir müssen die Fehlerquote reduzieren.

Sie hat ihre Arbeitsstunden reduziert.

The German language offers a rich variety of synonyms and related terms for 'reduzieren', each carrying its own subtle nuances and specific use cases. Understanding these alternatives not only expands your vocabulary but also allows for more precise and expressive communication. One of the most common synonyms is 'verringern'. This word is highly interchangeable with 'reduzieren' in many contexts, particularly when talking about decreasing quantities, sizes, or abstract concepts like risk or speed. 'Wir müssen das Risiko verringern' is just as natural as 'Wir müssen das Risiko reduzieren'. Another excellent alternative is 'verkleinern', which literally means 'to make smaller'. This is best used when referring to physical size or area, such as 'ein Bild verkleinern' (to shrink a picture) or 'die Wohnung verkleinern' (to downsize the apartment). When discussing prices or taxes, 'senken' is a very strong and frequently used synonym. 'Die Steuern senken' (to lower taxes) or 'die Preise senken' (to lower prices) are standard economic phrases. While 'reduzieren' works perfectly well here, 'senken' specifically implies a downward movement. Conversely, 'abnehmen' is used for decreases that happen naturally or intransitively, such as losing weight ('Ich habe abgenommen') or a decrease in intensity ('Der Regen nimmt ab'). It is crucial not to confuse the active 'reduzieren' with the often intransitive 'abnehmen'. For cutting back on expenses or consumption, 'einschränken' is a valuable word. It carries a connotation of restriction or limitation, as in 'Wir müssen unsere Ausgaben einschränken' (We must restrict our expenses). In a business context, when talking about reducing staff or dismantling structures, 'abbauen' is the preferred term. 'Personal abbauen' means to cut jobs or downsize the workforce. Finally, 'mindern' is a more formal or legalistic synonym, often used in contexts like 'den Wert mindern' (to depreciate the value) or 'die Strafe mindern' (to mitigate the punishment). By familiarizing yourself with these similar words—verringern, verkleinern, senken, abnehmen, einschränken, abbauen, and mindern—you can tailor your German to fit the exact context, whether you are discussing a physical shrinkage, a financial cut, a personal limitation, or a structural downsizing. Each word paints a slightly different picture of the act of making something less.

Verringern: A direct synonym, often used interchangeably for quantities and abstract concepts.

Senken: Specifically implies a downward movement, perfect for prices, taxes, and levels.

Abbauen: Used in business for downsizing staff or dismantling physical structures.

Wir müssen die Kosten reduzieren (oder senken).

Die Firma muss Personal reduzieren (oder abbauen).

Er will sein Risiko reduzieren (oder verringern).

Sie möchte ihren Konsum reduzieren (oder einschränken).

Bitte das Bild reduzieren (besser: verkleinern).

How Formal Is It?

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知っておくべき文法

レベル別の例文

Ich reduziere den Preis.

I reduce the price.

First person singular present tense.

Wir reduzieren den Zucker.

We reduce the sugar.

First person plural present tense.

Das T-Shirt ist reduziert.

The t-shirt is reduced (on sale).

Past participle used as an adjective.

Sie reduzieren die Kosten.

They reduce the costs.

Third person plural present tense.

Er reduziert sein Gewicht.

He reduces his weight.

Third person singular present tense.

Bitte reduzieren Sie das.

Please reduce that.

Formal imperative.

Ich habe den Preis reduziert.

I have reduced the price.

Perfect tense with 'haben'.

Die Äpfel sind reduziert.

The apples are reduced.

Used as an adjective in plural.

Wir müssen den Müll reduzieren.

We must reduce the waste.

Infinitive with the modal verb 'müssen'.

Ich möchte meinen Stress reduzieren.

I want to reduce my stress.

Infinitive with the modal verb 'möchten'.

Die Firma hat die Arbeitszeit reduziert.

The company has reduced the working hours.

Perfect tense.

Kannst du die Lautstärke reduzieren?

Can you reduce the volume?

Question with a modal verb.

Er versucht, seinen Fleischkonsum zu reduzieren.

He tries to reduce his meat consumption.

Infinitive clause with 'zu'.

Die Preise werden im Sommer reduziert.

The prices are reduced in the summer.

Passive voice present tense.

Sie hat ihre Ausgaben drastisch reduziert.

She has drastically reduced her expenses.

Perfect tense with an adverb.

Reduziere deine Geschwindigkeit hier!

Reduce your speed here!

Informal singular imperative.

Es ist wichtig, den CO2-Ausstoß zu reduzieren.

It is important to reduce CO2 emissions.

Infinitive clause with 'zu' after an adjective phrase.

Um die Umwelt zu schützen, reduzieren wir Plastik.

In order to protect the environment, we reduce plastic.

Main clause following an 'um... zu' clause.

Der Arzt riet ihm, den Blutdruck zu reduzieren.

The doctor advised him to reduce his blood pressure.

Infinitive clause depending on the verb 'raten'.

Lassen Sie die Soße bei schwacher Hitze reduzieren.

Let the sauce reduce on low heat.

Imperative with 'lassen' in a culinary context.

Durch Sport kann man das Risiko für Krankheiten reduzieren.

Through sports, one can reduce the risk of diseases.

Modal verb 'können' with a prepositional phrase.

Die Arbeitslosigkeit konnte im letzten Jahr reduziert werden.

Unemployment could be reduced last year.

Passive voice with a modal verb in the past tense.

Wenn wir weniger kaufen, reduzieren wir unseren Fußabdruck.

If we buy less, we reduce our footprint.

Conditional 'wenn' clause.

Sie haben das Personal reduziert, weil sie sparen mussten.

They reduced the staff because they had to save money.

Perfect tense in a main clause followed by a 'weil' clause.

Die Regierung plant, die Steuern für Familien deutlich zu reduzieren.

The government plans to significantly reduce taxes for families.

Infinitive clause with an adverb of degree.

Das komplexe Problem lässt sich auf zwei Hauptursachen reduzieren.

The complex problem can be reduced to two main causes.

Reflexive usage with 'sich lassen' indicating possibility.

Zur Reduzierung der Fehlerquote wurden neue Maschinen angeschafft.

New machines were purchased for the reduction of the error rate.

Noun form 'Reduzierung' in a prepositional phrase.

Wir müssen unsere Abhängigkeit von fossilen Brennstoffen reduzieren.

We must reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.

Abstract noun as the direct object.

Die Nebenwirkungen des Medikaments konnten auf ein Minimum reduziert werden.

The side effects of the medication could be reduced to a minimum.

Passive voice with modal verb and preposition 'auf'.

Er argumentierte, dass man Kunst nicht auf ihren Marktwert reduzieren dürfe.

He argued that one should not reduce art to its market value.

Subjunctive I (Konjunktiv I) in indirect speech.

Durch die Digitalisierung wird der bürokratische Aufwand erheblich reduziert.

Through digitalization, the bureaucratic effort is considerably reduced.

Passive voice in present tense with an adverb.

Es gilt, die potenziellen Gefahren im Vorfeld zu reduzieren.

It is necessary to reduce the potential dangers in advance.

Impersonal expression 'es gilt' with an infinitive clause.

Das Unternehmen sah sich gezwungen, die Belegschaft drastisch zu reduzieren.

The company saw itself forced to drastically reduce the workforce.

Complex infinitive construction with 'sich gezwungen sehen'.

Die Reduktion der Treibhausgase ist ein unabdingbares klimapolitisches Ziel.

The reduction of greenhouse gases is an indispensable climate policy goal.

Use of the scientific/formal noun 'Reduktion'.

Seine Philosophie reduziert sich im Kern auf einen radikalen Konstruktivismus.

His philosophy reduces itself at its core to a radical constructivism.

Reflexive use in an abstract, academic context.

Die Subventionen werden sukzessive reduziert, um den Markt zu deregulieren.

The subsidies are being successively reduced in order to deregulate the market.

Passive voice with the advanced adverb 'sukzessive'.

Eine bloße Symptombekämpfung wird das eigentliche Problem nicht reduzieren.

Merely fighting the symptoms will not reduce the actual problem.

Future tense with a nominalized infinitive subject.

Wir müssen die Variablen reduzieren, um ein valides statistisches Modell zu erhalten.

We must reduce the variables to obtain a valid statistical model.

Scientific context using 'um... zu'.

Der Autor reduziert die historischen Ereignisse auf einen simplen Gut-Böse-Konflikt.

The author reduces the historical events to a simple good-evil conflict.

Literary criticism context using 'auf'.

Durch präventive Maßnahmen ließen sich die Ausfallzeiten signifikant reduzieren.

Through preventive measures, the downtime could be significantly reduced.

Reflexive 'sich lassen' in Konjunktiv II for a hypothetical possibility.

Die Debatte wurde bedauerlicherweise auf populistische Schlagworte reduziert.

The debate was regrettably reduced to populist catchphrases.

Passive voice with an evaluative adverb.

In seiner späten Lyrik reduziert er die Sprache auf ihr absolutes Minimum.

In his late poetry, he reduces the language to its absolute minimum.

Literary analysis context.

Der Versuch, das Bewusstsein auf rein neurologische Prozesse zu reduzieren, greift zu kurz.

The attempt to reduce consciousness to purely neurological processes falls short.

Complex subject phrase with an embedded infinitive clause.

Die architektonische Formensprache ist hier auf geometrische Grundkörper reduziert.

The architectural design language is reduced here to basic geometric solids.

Zustandspassiv (stative passive) describing a state.

Es bedarf einer konzertierten Aktion, um die systemischen Risiken nachhaltig zu reduzieren.

A concerted action is required to sustainably reduce the systemic risks.

Formal register using 'es bedarf' with genitive.

Die Reduzierung der Komplexität erweist sich als die eigentliche intellektuelle Herausforderung.

The reduction of complexity proves to be the actual intellectual challenge.

Noun phrase subject with the reflexive verb 'sich erweisen als'.

Man darf den Menschen nicht auf seine ökonomische Verwertbarkeit reduzieren.

One must not reduce the human being to his economic usability.

Philosophical/ethical statement using 'man darf nicht'.

Durch die Destillation wird die Flüssigkeit auf ihre essenziellen Aromastoffe reduziert.

Through distillation, the liquid is reduced to its essential aromatic compounds.

Scientific/technical passive construction.

よく使う組み合わせ

Kosten reduzieren

Preise reduzieren

Gewicht reduzieren

Stress reduzieren

Müll reduzieren

Risiko reduzieren

Geschwindigkeit reduzieren

Personal reduzieren

CO2-Ausstoß reduzieren

auf ein Minimum reduzieren

よく使うフレーズ

stark reduziert

drastisch reduzieren

deutlich reduzieren

sich reduzieren auf

auf das Wesentliche reduzieren

die Ausgaben reduzieren

den Konsum reduzieren

die Arbeitszeit reduzieren

die Lautstärke reduzieren

den Preis reduzieren

よく混同される語

reduzieren vs abnehmen (to decrease naturally/lose weight)

reduzieren vs sinken (to sink/decrease intransitively)

reduzieren vs verringern (a direct synonym, but less common in shopping)

慣用句と表現

間違えやすい

reduzieren vs

文型パターン

使い方

note

While 'reduzieren' is widely understood, native speakers often prefer shorter, Germanic words like 'senken' or 'abbauen' in casual speech, reserving 'reduzieren' for slightly more formal or technical contexts, except in the case of shopping discounts where 'reduziert' is the absolute standard.

よくある間違い

Adding the 'ge-' prefix in the perfect tense (saying 'gereduziert' instead of 'reduziert').
Using 'reduzieren' without a direct accusative object (treating it as an intransitive verb).
Using the preposition 'zu' instead of 'auf' when saying something is reduced 'to' a certain amount.
Confusing 'reduzieren' (active reduction) with 'abnehmen' (natural decrease or weight loss).
Pronouncing the 'z' as an English 'z' instead of the German 'ts' sound.

ヒント

No ge- prefix

Remember that verbs ending in -ieren do not take the ge- prefix in the perfect tense. This is a common stumbling block for beginners who want to say gereduziert. The correct form is always hat reduziert. Keep this rule in mind for similar words like studieren or reparieren. It will save you from making a very common grammatical mistake.

Shopping Vocabulary

When you are shopping in Germany, keep an eye out for red stickers or signs that say 'reduziert'. This is the magic word for finding bargains. If you want to ask if an item is on sale, you can simply ask the shop assistant: 'Ist das reduziert?'. It's a highly practical word for everyday life.

Always use an object

Reduzieren is a transitive verb. This means you cannot just say 'I reduce'. You must state what you are reducing. Always follow the verb with an accusative object. For example: Ich reduziere den Preis, den Stress, den Müll. If you forget the object, the sentence will sound incomplete to a native speaker.

Use 'senken' for prices

While 'die Preise reduzieren' is perfectly correct and understood, native speakers often use the verb 'senken' when talking about lowering prices or taxes. 'Die Preise senken' sounds very natural and professional. Try mixing 'senken' into your vocabulary when discussing economics or shopping to sound more fluent.

Use 'auf' for limits

If you want to say that something is reduced TO a specific amount, use the preposition 'auf' + accusative. For example, 'Der Preis ist auf 5 Euro reduziert'. Do not use 'zu', which is a direct translation from English and is incorrect in this context. 'Auf' indicates the new limit or level.

Pronounce the Z correctly

In German, the letter 'z' is pronounced like 'ts' in the English word 'cats'. Therefore, 'reduzieren' is pronounced re-du-TS-ieren. Do not pronounce it with a soft English 'z' sound. Practicing this crisp 'ts' sound will instantly make your German sound more authentic.

Environmental Discussions

Reduzieren is a key word when talking about the environment. You will need it to discuss reducing waste (Müll reduzieren), reducing emissions (Abgase reduzieren), and reducing plastic (Plastik reduzieren). It is essential vocabulary for any B1 or B2 exam that covers ecological topics.

Boiling it down

To sound very advanced, use the reflexive form 'sich reduzieren auf' to mean 'to boil down to'. For example, 'Alles reduziert sich auf eine Frage der Zeit' (Everything boils down to a question of time). This is a great phrase to use in essays or formal discussions to summarize a point.

Passive Voice Usage

Because 'reduzieren' is often an action done to something by an unnamed entity (like a company or the government), it is frequently used in the passive voice. Practice sentences like 'Die Kosten werden reduziert' (The costs are being reduced) or 'Das Personal muss reduziert werden' (The staff must be reduced).

Cooking Context

If you enjoy cooking or watching German cooking shows, you will hear 'reduzieren' used to describe boiling down a sauce. The phrase 'reduzieren lassen' (to let reduce) is standard culinary terminology. So, next time you make a gravy, you can practice saying 'Ich lasse die Soße reduzieren'.

暗記しよう

記憶術

To REDUCE the price is to REDUZIEREN it. They sound almost identical.

語源

Borrowed from Latin 'reducere' (to lead back, bring back).

文化的な背景

Look for red signs saying 'Reduziert' or '%' in shop windows; it's the universal sign for a sale.

Müllvermeidung (waste avoidance) is a big topic; 'reduzieren' is the key verb used in these campaigns.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

会話のきっかけ

"Wie können wir unseren Plastikmüll im Alltag reduzieren?"

"Hast du gesehen, dass die Schuhe im Schaufenster reduziert sind?"

"Was tust du, um deinen Stress bei der Arbeit zu reduzieren?"

"Glaubst du, dass wir unseren Fleischkonsum reduzieren sollten?"

"Wie kann die Firma ihre Kosten reduzieren, ohne Personal abzubauen?"

日記のテーマ

Schreibe über drei Dinge, die du in deinem Leben reduzieren möchtest.

Beschreibe, wie man den Energieverbrauch im Haushalt reduzieren kann.

Erzähle von einem Mal, als du etwas sehr günstig gekauft hast, weil es reduziert war.

Warum ist es wichtig, den CO2-Ausstoß weltweit zu reduzieren?

Wie würdest du deine Arbeitszeit reduzieren, wenn du könntest?

よくある質問

10 問

Reduzieren is a regular weak verb in German. This means it follows a predictable conjugation pattern without changing its stem vowel. Furthermore, because it ends in the suffix -ieren, it does not take the ge- prefix in its past participle form. Instead, the past participle is simply reduziert. This makes it relatively easy for learners to memorize and use in various tenses. You will find many verbs borrowed from Latin or French follow this exact same -ieren pattern.

No, it does not. This is a very important rule to remember. Any German verb that ends in the suffix -ieren (like studieren, reparieren, informieren) forms its past participle without the ge- prefix. Therefore, the correct form is 'hat reduziert', never 'hat gereduziert'. This is a common mistake for beginners, so keeping this rule in mind will greatly improve your grammatical accuracy.

While both can translate to 'reduce' or 'decrease', they are used differently. 'Reduzieren' is an active, transitive verb meaning you are intentionally making something smaller (e.g., Ich reduziere den Preis). 'Abnehmen' is often used intransitively to describe a natural decrease or weight loss (e.g., Der Wind nimmt ab; Ich habe abgenommen). You actively reduce costs, but your weight naturally decreases (abnehmen) as a result of your actions.

Generally, no. Reduzieren is a transitive verb, which means it requires a direct object in the accusative case. You must specify what is being reduced. You cannot simply say 'Die Kosten reduzieren' to mean the costs are going down; you must say 'Wir reduzieren die Kosten' (We reduce the costs) or use the passive 'Die Kosten werden reduziert' (The costs are being reduced).

When you want to express what something is reduced *to*, you use the preposition 'auf' followed by the accusative case. For example, 'Der Preis ist auf 10 Euro reduziert' (The price is reduced to 10 euros). Do not use 'zu', which is a common mistake made by English speakers directly translating 'to'.

The most common way to say something is on sale or discounted in German is to use the past participle 'reduziert' as an adjective. You will see signs in shops that simply say 'Reduziert!'. You can say 'Die Schuhe sind reduziert' (The shoes are on sale). Another common word for a sale is 'das Angebot' (the offer).

Reduzieren is a highly versatile word that is used in both formal and informal contexts. In everyday life, you use it for shopping or talking about diets. In formal or business contexts, it is used to discuss cutting costs, reducing staff, or lowering emissions. It fits perfectly into almost any register.

When used reflexively with the preposition 'auf', 'sich reduzieren auf' means 'to be reduced to' or 'to boil down to'. It is used to describe a situation where a complex issue is simplified to its core element. For example, 'Die Diskussion reduziert sich auf die Frage des Geldes' means 'The discussion boils down to the question of money'.

Yes, German has several good synonyms. 'Verringern' is a direct and very common synonym. When talking about prices or taxes, 'senken' is highly recommended. For physical size, 'verkleinern' is appropriate. In a business context regarding staff, 'abbauen' is often used. Knowing these synonyms helps you sound more fluent and precise.

In culinary terms, 'reduzieren' means to boil a liquid (like a sauce or broth) so that the water evaporates, making the liquid thicker and the flavor more intense. A recipe might say 'Die Soße 10 Minuten reduzieren lassen', which translates to 'Let the sauce reduce for 10 minutes'.