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3. scale back

scale back

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scale back something

also scale something back

to reduce the size or amount of something The search for the child was scaled back sharply today, with almost a third of the volunteers heading home. The program was very effective, but the plan now is to scale it back.

Usage notes: also used in the form scale down: The original jury award of $10 million was scaled down to $250,000 by the judge.

Opposite of: ramp up something

See also: back, scale

scale back

v.

To reduce the scope or extent of something according to a standard or by degrees; reduce something in calculated amounts: The company scaled back the scheduled pay increase. After reviewing its budget, the school scaled its sports activities back.

See also: back, scale