Falling: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used in general contexts to describe something that is going downwards due to gravity without implying a specific speed or manner.

• The leaves are falling from the trees
• Rain was falling heavily all night

Used to describe a controlled movement downwards, often with deliberate action or a planned route, such as stairs or a mountain.

• She is carefully descending the stairs
• The airplane is descending towards the runway

Implies something being let go and falling from a higher position. It can also be used to describe a decline in status or level.

• He is dropping the ball
• The temperature is dropping quickly

Describes a rapid and often sudden fall, usually with an implication of a dramatic or alarming drop. Often used with negative connotations.

• The stock prices are plummeting
• The car plummeted down the cliff

This is a general term used to describe when something or someone moves downward due to gravity. It can be used in both literal and metaphorical senses.

• Leaves are falling from the trees
• She is falling in love

This word is used to describe a more chaotic or uncontrolled fall, often involving rolling or flipping. It can also be used metaphorically.

• The rocks tumbled down the hill
• She took a tumble during the hike

Typically used when a liquid is accidentally poured or moves out of its container. It implies lack of control over the liquid.

• I spilled coffee on my shirt
• The milk spilled all over the counter

This is often used when someone loses their balance, particularly on a smooth or wet surface. It suggests a quick, accidental movement.

• He slipped on the icy sidewalk
• Be careful not to slip on the spilled water

Used to describe something that is going downward or decreasing over time, often related to physical objects, but can also refer to abstract concepts like temperature or stock prices.

• The leaves are falling from the trees.
• The falling temperature signifies the approach of winter.

Often describes a gradual decrease or reduction in quantity, quality, or importance. Commonly used in economic, social, and health contexts.

• There has been a decline in the company's profits this quarter.
• His health began to decline after the surgery.

Refers to a sudden and often noticeable decrease or fall. This can apply to physical objects, statistics, or levels of something.

• The company's shares experienced a significant drop in value.
• There was a sudden drop in temperature last night.

Used when something is made smaller in size, amount, or number. Often used in formal or technical contexts such as business, manufacturing, and science.

• The factory aims for a reduction in waste by implementing new recycling methods.
• There was a reduction in the number of employees due to budget cuts.