to diminish
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to diminish
To reduce or lower something in its value, size, reputation, or significance.
Seine unüberlegte Bemerkung schmälerte den Erfolg des gesamten Projekts.
His thoughtless remark diminished the success of the entire project.
The verb 'schmälern' (to diminish/narrow) is derived from the adjective 'schmal' (narrow, thin). Literally or figuratively, it means to make something 'narrower' or smaller.
Diese Kritik soll deine Leistung nicht schmälern.
This criticism is not meant to diminish your achievement.
'Schmälern' (to diminish) is a transitive verb and always needs an accusative object. The structure is: someone or something diminishes something.
Der Regen schmälerte unsere Freude am Ausflug nur ein wenig.
The rain diminished our enjoyment of the trip only a little.
In its most common, abstract meaning, 'schmälern' (to diminish) is often combined with nouns such as 'den Erfolg' (the success), 'das Ansehen' (the reputation), 'die Freude' (the joy), 'die Chancen' (the chances), or 'den Gewinn' (the profit).
Nichts konnte ihre Freude über die bestandene Prüfung schmälern.
Nothing could diminish her joy at having passed the exam.
The word 'schmälern' (to diminish) belongs more to written language and formal usage. In everyday speech, people would often use other verbs.
Der Skandal droht den Ruf des Unternehmens nachhaltig zu schmälern.
The scandal threatens to permanently diminish the company's reputation.
The literal meaning 'to make something narrower' is very rare today and is found almost only in technical or craft contexts. In 99% of cases, the figurative meaning is intended.
Der Schneider musste die Hose an der Taille etwas schmälern.
The tailor had to narrow the trousers a little at the waist.
to increase
'erhöhen' and 'schmälern' often express opposite effects. 'erhöhen' means that a value, an amount, a degree, or a level of significance becomes greater. 'schmälern' means that something seems smaller, weaker, or less valuable. 'schmälern' is often used with profit, chances, reputation, success, or joy. It sounds somewhat more formal than simple words like 'verringern' (to reduce). If something is meant to increase, 'erhöhen' fits; if something loses value or impact, 'schmälern' fits.
Der lange Regen schmälerte die Freude an der Reise ein wenig.
The long rain diminished the enjoyment of the trip a little.
Die Kundin hat ihre Spende für das Schulprojekt erhöht.
The customer increased her donation for the school project.