Downfall: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used to describe the sudden and dramatic loss of power, status, or success.

• The scandal led to his downfall.
• The dictator’s downfall was celebrated by the citizens.

This term is used when something suddenly fails or falls apart, often referring to structures, organizations, or economies.

• The bridge's collapse was due to poor maintenance.
• The company faced a financial collapse.

This term often describes something that has been severely damaged or decayed, sometimes with a sense of irreversible harm.

• The ancient castle now lies in ruin.
• His gambling addiction led to financial ruin.

This word is appropriate when something is completely destroyed or made unusable, often used in violent contexts.

• The hurricane left a path of destruction.
• The war caused widespread destruction of infrastructure.

Use this word for a gradual decrease in quality, quantity, or importance over time.

• There has been a steady decline in the population.
• The decline of traditional newspapers is evident.

Use this word to refer to a major decline or failure of a person, organization, or system, often due to a single catastrophic event or series of events.

• The company's downfall was swift after the scandal broke.
• Many historians debate what caused the downfall of the Roman Empire.

This word is often used in a more formal or serious context to refer to death, the end of something, or the end of an era. It has a solemn or final tone.

• The sudden demise of the CEO shocked everyone in the office.
• The demise of the old theater marked the end of an era in our town.

This term is usually used to describe a reduction in status, rank, or quality. It can apply to a wide range of situations from credit ratings to software versions.

• The company's credit rating was downgraded due to poor financial performance.
• Some users were unhappy after their favorite features were removed in the software downgrade.

Disgrace refers to the loss of respect, honor, or esteem, often due to a socially or ethically unacceptable action and has a negative connotation.

• He was forced to resign in disgrace after the corruption charges were proven.
• The athlete's doping scandal brought disgrace to the entire sports community.