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Wordabulary

diminishing returns

Pronunciation
Noun B2 Upper-intermediate

Quick answer

The point at which putting in more effort, money, or resources starts producing smaller and smaller benefits.

"After the third coat of paint, they hit diminishing returns; each extra coat barely made a difference."

Test yourself

Which word fits the gap? "After the third coat of paint, they hit _____; each extra coat barely made a difference."

Answer: diminishing returns

In your own words, what does "diminishing returns" mean?

The point at which putting in more effort, money, or resources starts producing smaller and smaller benefits.

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