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

He attempted to entreat the enemy to surrender.

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

He tried to call a spirit using an ancient ritual.

He was demoted.

He was demoted because of his poor performance.

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

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

This polynomial is represented in descending powers.

He is always teasing his younger sister.