a decrease in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a decrease in' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you need to indicate that the amount or number of something has decreased, or gone down. For example: "The government announced a decrease in taxes for the new year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"There is a decrease in fidelity".

The New York Times - Tech

"It's basically a decrease in living standards".

The New York Times

New York City has also seen a decrease in violations.

The New York Times

"But after the revolution there was a decrease in membership.

The New York Times

This has unavoidably led to a decrease in genetic diversity.

The Guardian

Doesn't this constitute a decrease in services provided?

The New York Times

"You'll see a somewhat of a decrease in white turnout".

The New York Times

It also resulted in a decrease in caloric intake.

The New York Times - Health

"Ivan took a decrease in compensation last year.

The New York Times

A decrease in funding was also highlighted as a barrier.

The Guardian

If there is a decrease in consumption, France will have to face a decrease in growth, which will produce an even higher unemployment rate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a decrease in", ensure that you specify what is decreasing to provide clarity. For example, "a decrease in sales" is more informative than just "a decrease".

Common error

Avoid using "a decrease in" without specifying the subject that is decreasing. Always clarify what is being reduced to maintain clear communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a decrease in" functions as a noun phrase followed by a preposition, typically acting as a subject or object complement within a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, highlighting its role in indicating a reduction or decline.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a decrease in" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a reduction or decline. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and appropriateness across a range of contexts. It's most frequently found in news and media, but also appears in scientific and formal business writing. When using this phrase, ensure you specify what exactly is decreasing to maintain clarity. Related phrases like "a reduction in" or "a decline in" can be used as alternatives depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Remember to avoid vagueness and clearly indicate what is experiencing "a decrease in".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a reduction of

Uses "reduction" instead of "decrease", implying a lessening in amount, size, or intensity.

a decline in

Replaces "decrease" with "decline", suggesting a gradual deterioration or weakening.

a drop in

Substitutes "decrease" with "drop", indicating a sudden or significant fall.

a fall in

Similar to "a drop in", but may imply a more general downward trend.

a lessening of

Emphasizes the process of becoming smaller or less.

a diminution of

A more formal and less common alternative, suggesting a reduction in size, extent, or importance.

a curtailment of

Indicates a restriction or reduction, often in spending or privileges.

a shrinkage in

Implies a reduction in size or volume, often used in a physical context.

a contraction of

Suggests a shrinking or reduction, often used in economic or financial contexts.

a downtick in

Informal term for a small decline or decrease.

FAQs

How can I use "a decrease in" in a sentence?

Use "a decrease in" to indicate a reduction in something. For example, "There was "a decrease in" crime rates this year", or "The company reported "a decrease in" profits".

What phrases are similar to "a decrease in"?

Similar phrases include "a reduction in", "a decline in", and "a drop in". The best choice depends on the context and the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "decrease of" or "decrease in"?

"A decrease in" is generally preferred and more grammatically correct when referring to a reduction in something. "Decrease of" is less common and can sound awkward in many contexts.

How does "a decrease in" compare to "reduction in"?

Both "a decrease in" and "a reduction in" are very similar and often interchangeable. "Reduction" might imply a more deliberate or controlled lessening, while "decrease" is a more general term for something becoming smaller or less.