reduction in force

Definitions

The permanent elimination of one or more positions within an organization, typically due to budget cuts, restructuring, or lack of work.

A formal process of downsizing a workforce by terminating employees, often used as a euphemism for layoffs.

Examples

The company announced a significant reduction in force due to the recent economic downturn.

Many employees were anxious about their job security following the rumors of a potential reduction in force.

Synonyms

layoff downsizing staff redundancy workforce reduction job cuts retrenchment rightsizing

Antonyms

hiring recruitment staff expansion workforce growth job creation staffing up personnel increase