Declining: meaning, definitions and examples
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declining
[ dɪˈklaɪnɪŋ ]
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.
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| refuse |
Use this word when someone does not agree or accept to do something. It often implies a strong unwillingness.
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| reject |
Use this word when something or someone is not accepted, often formally. It can have a more harsh or negative tone.
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| 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.
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
Etymology
The word 'declining' originates from the Middle English word 'declinen', which comes from the Old French word 'decliner', ultimately derived from the Latin word 'declinare' meaning 'to turn aside, avoid, or sink'. The usage of 'declining' has evolved over time to encompass both the concepts of decreasing in quantity as well as politely refusing or rejecting something.
See also: declension, declination, decliner.