1 : the act of becoming smaller or of making something smaller in size, amount, number, etc. [count] ▪ Studies report a recent decrease in traffic accidents. ▪ We've had a decrease [=reduction] in the number of students enrolling in the school. ▪ significant decreases in activity [noncount] ▪ Because of the injury, some decrease in mobility is to be expected. 2 [count] : the amount by which something is made smaller
▪ The report showed decreases [=reductions] of between 20 and 30 percent. ▪ a decrease of three dollars — opposite increase
▪ The report showed decreases [=reductions] of between 20 and 30 percent. ▪ a decrease of three dollars — opposite increase
on the decrease
: becoming less in size, amount, number, etc. : decreasing
▪ The number of college applications is on the decrease. [=on the decline]
▪ The number of college applications is on the decrease. [=on the decline]




