Dropped: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used when something is unintentionally allowed to fall or is deliberately let go from a higher position to a lower position.

• She dropped her phone on the floor
• The price dropped significantly after the sale ended

This word can be used in a variety of scenarios where something moves downwards due to gravity, whether it is accidental or intentional.

• Watch out, you might fall if you're not careful! The leaves fall from the trees in autumn

This word is used when talking about a controlled, often smooth movement from a higher place to a lower place. It is often used in a more formal or technical context.

• They began to descend the mountain as the sun set
• The airplane will shortly begin to descend

This word is used when something falls very quickly and often suddenly, typically from a great height. It has a dramatic and sometimes negative connotation.

• Temperatures are expected to plummet tonight
• The stock prices plummeted due to the bad news

When something is unintentionally let go of or falls from a height. Can be used for physical items or for projects/tasks that are suddenly stopped.

• She dropped her phone while walking
• He dropped the project after realizing it wasn't feasible

When something or someone is left behind permanently, often with a sense of neglect or without plan to return. It has a negative connotation.

• The dog was abandoned by its owner
• They had to abandon their home due to the flood

When someone voluntarily stops doing an activity or job they were engaged in. It can imply a sense of giving up.

• He decided to quit his job to pursue his passion
• She quit smoking after many years

When something is thrown away or disposed of because it’s not needed or wanted anymore. It can refer to both physical items and ideas/plans.

• She discarded the old clothes
• They discarded the original plan after finding a better solution

Repeated from above: used for a sudden or significant fall in amount, level, or value.

• The temperature dropped rapidly overnight.
• Sales dropped by 20% last quarter.

Used to describe a reduction in size, number, or amount, often in a more neutral context compared to 'dropped' or 'decline'.

• There was a decrease in crime rates last year.
• The government implemented measures to decrease unemployment.

This term refers to a gradual and often steady decrease in amount, quality, or strength. It can sometimes have a negative connotation, suggesting a downturn or deterioration.

• The company's profits have been in decline for the past few years.
• There was a decline in the number of students enrolling in the course.

This term implies a making smaller or less in size, amount, or degree, and is often used in more formal or technical contexts.

• The reduction in carbon emissions was a direct result of the new policy.
• There was a notable reduction in the number of hospital admissions.