1. To physically reduce the space between two points or objects
The runner diminished the distance between himself and his opponent in the final lap.
O corredor diminuiu a distância entre ele e seu oponente na volta final.
2. To metaphorically reduce a gap, difference, or separation, such as in relationships, understanding, or status
Regular communication helps diminish the distance between parents and children.
A comunicação regular ajuda a diminuir a distância entre pais e filhos.
3. To make progress toward closing a deficit or narrowing a competitive gap
The team diminished the distance and scored three goals in the second half.
O time diminuiu a distância e marcou três gols na segunda metade.