Relapse: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually used in medical or recovery contexts to indicate a return to a previous worse state after a period of improvement.

• After months of sobriety, Mark experienced a relapse
• The patient's cancer went into remission, but unfortunately, there was a relapse

Mainly used in psychological, developmental, or technical contexts to describe a return to an earlier, less advanced state.

• The child’s behavior was noted to have a regression after the family moved
• The software update caused a regression in functionality

Generally used to describe a gradual process of becoming progressively worse, often related to physical or structural conditions.

• There has been a noticeable deterioration in the old building
• Her eyesight showed a steady deterioration over the years

Typically used in general contexts to signify a gradual decrease in quality, quantity, or importance.

• The company's profits saw a decline last quarter
• There has been a decline in public interest in traditional news media

This word is often used in medical or psychological contexts to describe a patient returning to a former worse state after seeming improvement. It can also be used in addiction recovery when someone falls back into old habits.

• After six months of sobriety, he had a relapse and started drinking again.
• The patient's condition seemed to improve, but unfortunately, she experienced a relapse.

This word is frequently employed in psychological or developmental contexts to indicate returning to an earlier, less advanced stage. It carries a somewhat formal and technical tone.

• The child seemed to regress in his behavior after the trauma.
• Some patients regress under stress, showing behaviors typical of a younger age.

Often used in both medical and general contexts to indicate something getting worse over time, especially in terms of physical or structural condition. It generally highlights a process rather than a sudden change.

• The building's condition has deteriorated rapidly due to neglect.
• Her eyesight began to deteriorate as she aged.

This term is commonly used to discuss a general decrease in quality, quantity, or importance. It can apply to health, economics, moral standards, etc.

• The economic decline has affected businesses worldwide.
• His health has been in decline for several years.