MINIMIZE

[UK and ANZ] usually -ise [verb] [T]To minimize something is to reduce to the least possible level or amount.We do all that we can to minimize the risk of infection.Environmentalists are doing everything within their power to minimize the impact of the oil spill.Compare maximize at maximum.To minimize something is also to make it seem less important or smaller than it really is.She accused the government of minimizing the suffering of thousands of people.The important thing in an interview is to make the most of your strengths and minimize your weaknesses. [T]