资料题：The word "slashed” in paragraph 1, line 9 is closest in meaning to

Hotel Giant Halts Jumeirah ProjectDUBAI - France’s largest hospitality chain, Amaud Hotels, has decided to postpone the construction of a one-billion-dollar hotel complex in Palm Jumeirah due to recent global economic problems. “The decision was made in an effort to secure the company’s funds since the crisis has been adversely affecting Dubai’s tourism industry,” Amaud Hotels spokesperson Sebastian Lefebvre said. Tourism in the Arab city has suffered heavy losses after several companies slashed jobs and real estate prices tumbled. Lefebvre said Amaud Hotels will resume the construction once Dubai’s economic condition becomes more stable. The spokesperson, however, dismissed rumors about the suspension of ongoing expansion projects in London, Rome, and Madrid.