Full Idea
A reductive analysis is one that provides an alternative set of concepts by which some target concept can be understood. It must be non-circular, and given in terms of concepts that are themselves better understood.
Gist of Idea
Reductive analysis makes a concept clearer, by giving an alternative simpler set
Source
Neil E. Williams (The Powers Metaphysics [2019], 01.2)
Book Reference
Williams,Neil E.: 'The Powers Metaphysics' [OUP 2019], p.8
A Reaction
There seem to be two aims of analysis: this one emphasises understanding, but the other one concerns ontology - by demonstrating that some concept or thing can be understood fully by what happens at a lower level.