scale back — to reduce the size, extent, or number of something
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to reduce the size, extent, or number of something
Pronunciation (IPA): /skeɪl bæk/
Example Sentences
- After burning through their budget on office snacks, the startup had to scale back their 'unlimited cookies' policy.
- The government announced plans to scale back military spending by 15%.
- Due to environmental concerns, the oil company decided to scale back its offshore drilling projects.
scale back
VERB[/skeɪl bæk/]
to reduce the size, extent, or number of something
a construction foreman holds up his hands in a stopping gesture while pointing to workers operating large bulldozers and cranes. The foreman directs several workers to move the heavy machinery away from the work area. As the equipment gets relocated, fewer workers remain active on the construction site. The remaining crew focuses on a much smaller section of the original work area. Other workers pack up tools and materials that are no longer needed for the reduced project. the construction operation being scaled back to a smaller size and scope
When ventures fail back, it's time to scale back and sail back to safety!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Scale derives from Latin scala, meaning 'ladder' or 'graduated series of marks'. Combined with back (meaning 'backward' or 'in reverse'), the phrase literally conveys turning the scale backward—reducing something in size, amount, or intensity.
Breakdown
scala (Latin: ladder, graduated scale) + back (Old English: backward direction, reverse action). The compound idiom metaphorically applies the image of moving backward along a scale to mean reduction or decrease.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“After burning through their budget on office snacks, the startup had to scale back their 'unlimited cookies' policy.”
“The government announced plans to scale back military spending by 15%.”
“Due to environmental concerns, the oil company decided to scale back its offshore drilling projects.”
“My New Year's resolution was to exercise daily, but I had to scale back to twice a week when I realized I'm not Superman.”
📚Related Words
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