He attempted to entreat the enemy to surrender.

He waved a white flag to entreat the enemy to surrender.

The rain from the heavens washed away my heart.

He attempted to call the spirits of the dead using an ancient ritual.

He tried to call a spirit using an ancient ritual.

This polynomial is represented in descending powers.

He was demoted.

He was demoted because of his poor performance.

Due to the economic crisis, the company decided to reduce everyone's salary.

His salary was reduced because the company's financial situation worsened.