mitigate

/ˈmɪt.ɪ.ɡeɪt/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: mitigates · mitigating · mitigated

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To reduce, lessen, or decrease and thereby to make less severe or easier to bear.

Verb

Examples

Measures are pursuing to prevent or mitigate the usual consequences of such outrages, and with the hope of their succeeding at least to avert general hostility.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

To downplay.

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “mitigate” mean?

To reduce, lessen, or decrease and thereby to make less severe or easier to bear.

Is “mitigate” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.