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Deteriorated: meaning, definitions and examples

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deteriorated

 

[dɪˈtɪərɪəˌreɪtɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in a negative way

To become worse in quality or condition over time. To decline or deteriorate gradually.

Synonyms

decline, degenerate, worsen.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
deteriorated

This word is used to describe something that has gradually become worse over time. It is suitable for situations where the change is ongoing or happening slowly, especially regarding conditions, relationships, or health.

  • The condition of the old building has deteriorated over the years
  • His health deteriorated rapidly after the diagnosis
worsen

This word is used to indicate that something has become worse, especially in a noticeable or sudden way. It is suitable for discussing health, weather, relationships, or any condition that has experienced a recent negative change.

  • Her symptoms worsened after she stopped taking the medication
  • The weather is expected to worsen later this evening
decline

This word often refers to a gradual decrease in quality, quantity, or importance. It is used in contexts like economic situations, environmental quality, or personal abilities.

  • The company's profits have been in decline for the past three quarters
  • There is a noticeable decline in air quality in the urban areas
degenerate

This word carries a negative connotation and is used to describe something that has lost its good qualities or has become morally corrupt. It is suitable for situations referring to moral decline or the loss of integrity in behavior or conditions.

  • The debate degenerated into a shouting match
  • The neighborhood has begun to degenerate since the factory closed

Examples of usage

  • The old building has deteriorated over the years and now needs extensive repairs.
  • The patient's health deteriorated rapidly after the surgery.
Context #2 | Verb

in health

To become weaker or sicker in health, to decline in physical well-being.

Synonyms

decline, weaken, worsen.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
deteriorated

Used when describing a situation, object, or condition that has become substantially worse over time, often implying a decline from a previously better state.

  • The abandoned house has deteriorated significantly over the years
  • His health has deteriorated since last winter
worsen

Used to indicate that something, such as a condition or situation, becomes more severe or unpleasant, often rapidly.

  • If you don't take care of that wound, it could worsen
  • Tension between the two countries continues to worsen
decline

Often used in formal contexts to describe a gradual fall in quality, frequency, or importance, such as in business, health, or social situations.

  • The company's profits have been in decline for the past three years
  • There has been a noticeable decline in her academic performance
weaken

Typically used to describe a reduction in physical strength, power, or intensity, both for living beings and abstract concepts like arguments or structures.

  • The disease has significantly weakened his immune system
  • Her stance on the issue has weakened over time

Examples of usage

  • The patient's condition deteriorated overnight, prompting the doctors to take immediate action.
  • If your health deteriorates, make sure to consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'deterior' meaning 'worse' or 'of lower quality'.
  • In English, it first appeared in the late 15th century, primarily related to the decline of property and value.

Psychology

  • People often see a decline in motivation and satisfaction when their environment deteriorates.
  • The concept of learned helplessness suggests that when people feel they cannot change a deteriorating situation, they may stop trying altogether.

Environmental Science

  • Deterioration of ecosystems can lead to irreversible damage, affecting biodiversity and natural resources.
  • Urban areas often face deteriorating infrastructure due to neglect, which can impact public safety and health.

Pop Culture

  • The idea of things deteriorating is often explored in movies and literature, like in dystopian narratives showing a collapse of society.
  • Songs and poetry frequently reflect on personal deterioration as a metaphor for emotional struggles.

Health

  • In medicine, deteriorating health can refer to a decline in physical abilities or the progression of diseases.
  • Chronic conditions often lead to deterioration over time if not managed properly, reinforcing the importance of consistent care.

Translations

Translations of the word "deteriorated" in other languages:

🇵🇹 deteriorado

🇮🇳 खराब हो गया

🇩🇪 verschlechtert

🇮🇩 memburuk

🇺🇦 погіршений

🇵🇱 pogorszony

🇯🇵 悪化した

🇫🇷 détérioré

🇪🇸 deteriorado

🇹🇷 kötüleşmiş

🇰🇷 악화된

🇸🇦 متدهور

🇨🇿 zhoršený

🇸🇰 zhoršený

🇨🇳 恶化的

🇸🇮 poslabšano

🇮🇸 versnað

🇰🇿 нашарлаған

🇬🇪 დამძიმებული

🇦🇿 pisləşmiş

🇲🇽 deteriorado

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,797, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.