decrease-n; 3 Senses

Sense Number 1: the process of becoming less or smaller

Commentary: DECREASE[+event][+process][+reduction][+size/+degree/+amount] Refers to an ongoing process or event of reduction, not a relative measurement (Sense 2)

Examples:
Something had caused a sudden and rapid decrease in the cabin pressure of the aircraft.
The number of violent crimes in these cities has been on the decrease for three years.
They cancelled the town picnic due to a decrease of participation by locals.

Mappings:
PropBank: decrease.01
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1

Sense Number 2: a quantity, a measure of reduction

Commentary: DECREASE[+quantity][+measurement][+relative][+reduced] Refers to a measurement which is smaller relative to previous measurements

Examples:
The employees had to take a 10% decrease in pay this quarter.
The decreases in ocean temperature reported in that study confirm other reports.
The teacher hadn't expected such a large decrease in attendance during the last month of class.

Mappings:
PropBank: decrease.01
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1

Sense Number 3: Senses 1 and 2

Commentary: Choose this option when senses 1 and 2 are being used simultaneously.

Examples:
The decrease in oil prices was both large and rapid.
The decrease in calcium was gradual and difficult to measure. (difficult, not impossible)

Mappings:
PropBank: decrease.01
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1