Declining: meaning, definitions and examples
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declining
[dɪˈklaɪnɪŋ ]
Definitions
economy
Becoming smaller, fewer, or less; decreasing.
Synonyms
decreasing, diminishing, falling, reducing.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| declining |
Use 'declining' when referring to a steady or gradual decrease in quality, quantity, or importance. It often has a slightly formal tone.
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| decreasing |
'Decreasing' is a neutral term that can be used in general contexts to signify something becoming smaller or fewer in number, size, or amount.
|
| falling |
Use 'falling' when talking about a decrease that is more noticeable and often faster. It can be used in casual or formal contexts.
|
| reducing |
'Reducing' implies an intentional effort to make something smaller or fewer. It is often used in proactive or goal-oriented situations.
|
| diminishing |
'Diminishing' implies a reduction that is often ongoing and slightly noticeable. It can also carry a negative connotation, indicating a loss of value or importance.
|
Examples of usage
- The declining economy has led to many job losses.
- Our company is facing declining sales this quarter.
- The declining population in the region is a cause for concern.
- The declining value of the currency is affecting imports.
- The declining trend in the stock market has investors worried.
politeness
Refusing politely to do something or to accept something.
Synonyms
deny, refuse, reject, turn down.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| declining |
Use this word when something is gradually decreasing or becoming worse over time, like health or statistics.
|
| refuse |
Use this word when someone does not agree or accept to do something. It often implies a strong unwillingness.
|
| reject |
Use this word when something or someone is not accepted, often formally. It can have a more harsh or negative tone.
|
| turn down |
Use this phrase when declining an offer or request politely. It is a more casual and less formal term.
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| deny |
Use this word when someone states that something is not true or does not exist. It often has a formal or serious tone.
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Examples of usage
- She declined the offer to join the committee.
- He declined the invitation to the party.
- They declined to comment on the matter.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'declināre,' which means 'to lean down or bend down.'
- The transition into Middle French as 'decliner' shows the evolution of its use in different languages.
- In English, the verb 'decline' has been used since the 14th century, often associated with failing health or opportunity.
Economics
- In economic terms, declining can refer to a downturn in GDP, indicating a reduction in a country’s economic health.
- Businesses might decline in profitability due to market changes, competition, or decreased consumer demand.
- A declining labor force can signal potential challenges for an economy as fewer workers can lead to reduced productivity.
Ecology
- Certain species of animals and plants experience declining populations, often due to habitat loss and climate change.
- Declining biodiversity can threaten ecosystems, leading to imbalances that affect food chains and natural processes.
- Conservation efforts are aimed at reversing the declining trends of endangered species through protection and rehabilitation.
Health
- Declining health can be a natural part of aging, but it can also result from diseases or poor lifestyle choices.
- Early intervention in health can help prevent declines in health status, emphasizing preventative care.
- Mental health can decline due to factors like stress, isolation, or trauma, highlighting the need for support resources.
Literature
- Declining themes are often explored in literature, symbolizing loss, decay, or change within characters or settings.
- Writers, in many works, use declining fortunes of characters as a plot device to evoke empathy or reflection.
- The metaphor of declining landscapes can enhance storytelling, reflecting internal struggles alongside external environments.
Translations
Translations of the word "declining" in other languages:
🇵🇹 declinando
🇮🇳 गिरावट
🇩🇪 nachlassend
🇮🇩 menurun
🇺🇦 занепадаючий
🇵🇱 słabnący
🇯🇵 減少している
🇫🇷 en déclin
🇪🇸 declinante
🇹🇷 azalan
🇰🇷 감소하는
🇸🇦 متراجع
🇨🇿 klesající
🇸🇰 klesajúci
🇨🇳 下降
🇸🇮 upadajoč
🇮🇸 hnignandi
🇰🇿 төмендеу
🇬🇪 კლების
🇦🇿 azalan
🇲🇽 declinante