The phrase "decrease by" is commonly used to describe a reduction in a quantity, such as "the price decreased by 10%." In IPA phonetic transcription, this phrase can be written as /dɪˈkriːs baɪ/. The first syllable "de-" is pronounced with a short "i" sound, while the second syllable is pronounced with a long "e" sound. The "c" and "s" sounds in "decrease" are pronounced separately, and the word "by" is pronounced with a long "i" sound. Overall, the spelling of "decrease by" accurately reflects its pronunciation in English.
"Decrease by" is a phrase commonly used to describe an action or process where a quantity or value is reduced or made smaller by a specified amount. It signifies a quantitative decrease or reduction in size, quantity, level, or intensity. When something decreases by a certain value or amount, it implies that the original value or quantity is being diminished by that specific numerical value.
When an object, number, or attribute decreases by a given amount, it means that the starting value or measurement is being subtracted from, resulting in a lower value or measurement. For example, if the temperature decreases by 5 degrees Celsius, it means that the original temperature is being reduced by 5 degrees. Similarly, if the price of an item decreases by $10, it indicates that the original price is being cut by $10.
The phrase "decrease by" can be used in various contexts, such as financial, scientific, mathematical, and everyday situations. It allows for clear and precise communication when discussing reductions or diminishing quantities. By specifying the amount by which something is decreasing, one can provide a specific measure of the change, facilitating accurate understanding and interpretation.
In summary, "decrease by" expresses the action of diminishing or reducing a value, measurement, or quantity by a defined amount, resulting in a smaller or lower value.
The word "decrease" originated from the Middle English word "decrees(en)" which derived from the Old French word "decreistre". This Old French term was formed by combining the Latin prefix "de" meaning "down" or "away" with the Latin word "crescere" meaning "to grow". Therefore, "decrease" originally meant "to grow down" or "to get smaller". The addition of "by" in the phrase "decrease by" indicates the amount or rate of decrease.