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Dilapidation: meaning, definitions and examples

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dilapidation

 

[dɪˌlæpɪˈdeɪʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

building condition

The process of falling into disrepair or being neglected, especially in relation to buildings or structures.

Synonyms

decay, decrepitude, deterioration, ruin.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dilapidation

Refers specifically to buildings or objects that are in a state of disrepair due to neglect or age. It often implies a gradual damage over time.

  • The mansion showed clear signs of dilapidation, with peeling paint and broken windows.
  • Years of neglect led to the dilapidation of the historic theater.
decay

Generally used to describe the process of rotting or decomposition. It can refer to organic matter as well as social or moral decline.

  • The smell of decay was overwhelming in the abandoned house.
  • The city has been in a state of social decay for years.
deterioration

Describes the process of becoming progressively worse. It can be used for physical objects, health, or other conditions.

  • The patient's health showed signs of deterioration.
  • The road's surface has undergone significant deterioration over the years.
ruin

Refers to the state of complete destruction or severe damage. It can describe buildings, careers, fortunes, or lives.

  • The castle was a magnificent ruin, standing as a testament to its former glory.
  • His career was left in ruins after the scandal.
decrepitude

Refers to the state of being old and in poor condition, often in relation to living beings or objects. It conveys a sense of advanced age and weakening.

  • The old man lived in decrepitude, barely able to move.
  • The car, in its state of decrepitude, was barely running.

Examples of usage

  • The old mansion showed signs of dilapidation, with crumbling walls and a leaky roof.
  • The dilapidation of the historic church was a sad sight for the local community.
Context #2 | Noun

financial

The state of being in a bad condition due to neglect or misuse, especially related to financial assets.

Synonyms

bankruptcy, degradation, impairment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dilapidation

Use this when referring to buildings or structures that have fallen into disrepair, often due to neglect or age.

  • The old house on the corner is in a state of dilapidation.
  • Years of neglect led to the dilapidation of the historic mansion.
degradation

This word suits instances of moral, environmental, or social decline, often caused by disrespect or mistreatment.

  • The degradation of the environment is a global concern.
  • The character suffered personal degradation through his choices.
impairment

Use this when referring to a reduction in function or ability, often in medical or physical contexts.

  • Hearing impairment is common among older adults.
  • The accident resulted in impairment of her cognitive abilities.
bankruptcy

This is best used in financial contexts where a person or company is unable to pay their debts and seeks legal protection.

  • The company declared bankruptcy after failing to meet its financial obligations.
  • Personal bankruptcy can be a stressful experience for anyone.

Examples of usage

  • The company faced dilapidation after years of mismanagement and poor financial decisions.
  • The dilapidation of the economy was a result of corruption and lack of investment.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'dilapidatio,' meaning 'to throw down' or 'to waste away.'
  • In Latin, 'lapis' means 'stone,' hinting at structures made of stone that have fallen into disrepair.

Architecture

  • Many historic buildings suffer from dilapidation, which can illustrate the changing priorities in urban development.
  • Restoration efforts on dilapidated buildings can often lead to revitalized neighborhoods, preserving their history.

Cultural References

  • In literature, dilapidated settings often symbolize decay, misfortune, or the passage of time.
  • Movies frequently use dilapidated locations to create a mood of eeriness or to evoke nostalgia.

Environmental Impact

  • Dilapidated structures can become a safety hazard, attracting pests and potentially causing pollution.
  • Urban decay often leads to a decrease in property values and can impact community health and safety.

Psychology

  • Living in or near dilapidated environments can affect mental well-being, contributing to feelings of neglect and anxiety.
  • Some studies suggest that well-maintained surroundings promote positive mental health, while dilapidation has the opposite effect.

Translations

Translations of the word "dilapidation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 dilapidação

🇮🇳 खंडहर अवस्था

🇩🇪 Verfall

🇮🇩 kerusakan

🇺🇦 занепад

🇵🇱 ruina

🇯🇵 荒廃

🇫🇷 délabrement

🇪🇸 deterioro

🇹🇷 harabe

🇰🇷 황폐

🇸🇦 تدهور

🇨🇿 zchátralost

🇸🇰 spustnutie

🇨🇳 破损

🇸🇮 propadanje

🇮🇸 niðurfall

🇰🇿 құлдырау

🇬🇪 დანგრევა

🇦🇿 dağılma

🇲🇽 deterioro

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,396 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.