縮小
The act of reducing the size, scale, or scope of something. It is commonly used when talking about downsizing operations, shrinking digital images, or narrowing the range of a project.
Examples
3 of 5この写真を縮小してプリントしてください。
Please shrink this photo and print it.
予算の都合で、計画を縮小することになりました。
Due to budget constraints, it was decided to scale back the plan.
画像が大きすぎるから、少し縮小して送って。
The image is too big, so shrink it a bit before sending.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Look at the left side of the first kanji (縮). The 'thread' radical (糸) suggests pulling threads tight to make a piece of cloth smaller.
Quick Quiz
データが重いので、画像を( )してから送ってください。
Correct!
The correct answer is: 縮小
Examples
この写真を縮小してプリントしてください。
everydayPlease shrink this photo and print it.
予算の都合で、計画を縮小することになりました。
formalDue to budget constraints, it was decided to scale back the plan.
画像が大きすぎるから、少し縮小して送って。
informalThe image is too big, so shrink it a bit before sending.
人口の縮小は、地方都市にとって深刻な課題である。
academicPopulation reduction is a serious issue for regional cities.
来期は不採算部門の事業を縮小する予定です。
businessWe plan to downsize the operations of unprofitable departments next term.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
規模の縮小
downsizing / reduction in scale
縮小均衡
equilibrium on a diminishing scale
事業縮小
business downsizing
Often Confused With
Genshō refers specifically to a decrease in number or quantity, while shukushō refers to a reduction in physical size or organizational scale.
Usage Notes
It is most frequently used for digital media (resizing windows/images) and business contexts (reducing the scale of operations). It carries a more technical or formal tone than the simple verb 'chiisaku suru'.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes use this word when they mean 'to lower' a price or volume; however, 'shukushō' is strictly for size and scale, not for levels or intensity.
Memory Tip
Look at the left side of the first kanji (縮). The 'thread' radical (糸) suggests pulling threads tight to make a piece of cloth smaller.
Word Origin
Composed of 'shuku' (縮 - to shrink/wrinkle) and 'shō' (小 - small).
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In Japan, 'jigyō shukushō' (business downsizing) is a common term in news reports regarding economic restructuring.
Quick Quiz
データが重いので、画像を( )してから送ってください。
Correct!
The correct answer is: 縮小
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
打ち合わせ
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指示
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命令
A1A command or order given by a person in authority to a subordinate. It implies that the person receiving the command is expected to follow it without question.
規制
A1The act of controlling or limiting something through rules, laws, or official authority. It is commonly used to describe government policies, traffic control, or organizational restrictions to maintain order or safety.
処罰
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罰金
A1A sum of money that someone is ordered to pay as a penalty for breaking a law or rule. It is most commonly associated with traffic violations, administrative offenses, or minor crimes.
裁判
A1A formal legal process where a judge or court hears evidence to decide a legal case or dispute. It refers to a trial, judgment, or the act of adjudication within a judicial system.
弁護
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告訴
A1A formal criminal complaint or legal accusation filed by a victim to the police or a prosecutor. It specifically refers to the victim's request for the offender to be punished under criminal law.
訴訟
A1A formal legal process where a dispute is brought before a court for a judicial decision. It typically involves a plaintiff seeking a legal remedy against a defendant through the court system.
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