1. To lower something from some amount, degree, or margin to a lower one. A noun or pronoun is used between "reduce" and "from." Often used in passive constructions. We were forced to reduce our staff from 100 people to just 25 in order to stay afloat. Wow, this computer has been reduced from $1200 to just $600!

2. To diminish or weaken someone or something from some degree or position of power, strength, or effectiveness to a lower one. A noun or pronoun is used between "reduce" and "from." Often used in passive constructions. The government has reduced our agency from an effective industry regulator to a pencil-pushing façade. The film's emotional ending reduced him from a stoic, unflinching tough guy to a sobbing, blubbering mess. Seeing her after so many years reduced me from the elegant, sophisticated woman I'd spent so long perfecting to the same dopey schoolgirl I used to be.