a dip in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a dip in" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a brief immersion or experience in something, often related to water or a temporary engagement in an activity. Example: "After a long hike, we decided to take a dip in the cool lake to refresh ourselves."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Spas also see a dip in business.

The New York Times - Travel

"A dip in?" "A dip in form?" "No, no, no.

The Guardian - Sport

We'd take a dip in the bay.

The New York Times

Take a dip in the pool.

The New York Times

We did take a dip in the Ganges".

The New York Times

**** Tuesday will bring a dip in the sea off  Bournemouth.

Independent

Guest Blog | 'Taking a Dip in the Nonfiction Pool' 1.

The New York Times

Many supermarkets are now reporting a dip in poultry sales.

The Economist

Some even took a dip in the pool.

The New York Times

Perfect for filling up after a dip in the sea.

The Guardian - Travel

Take a dip in the local swimming pool, Gunglesund.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a dip in", ensure the context clearly indicates what is experiencing a temporary decline. For example, "a dip in temperature" or "a dip in sales".

Common error

Avoid using "a dip in" when describing a permanent or long-lasting decrease. "Dip" suggests a temporary fluctuation, not a fundamental change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a dip in" primarily functions as a noun phrase often used to describe a temporary decrease or decline in something. Ludwig examples show it is frequently followed by a noun, such as "a dip in form", "a dip in sales", or "a dip in prices". It acts as the subject or object of a verb, indicating a fluctuation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a dip in" is a commonly used phrase to describe a temporary decrease or involvement, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions grammatically as a noun phrase and can be used in a neutral register, fitting well into contexts like news, business, and informal conversation. When writing, it's important to consider whether the intended meaning aligns with the temporary nature of the term, and avoid using it when a more permanent decline is meant. While "a drop in", "a decline in", and similar alternatives may be appropriate in some contexts, "a dip in" often conveys a less severe and more transient fluctuation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a drop in

Indicates a reduction, similar to a dip, but can imply a more sudden or significant decrease.

a decline in

Suggests a gradual decrease, differing from a dip in that it implies a more prolonged trend.

a decrease in

A more general term for reduction, less nuanced than "a dip in".

a fall in

Similar to a drop, but can also refer to a moral decline or loss of status.

a reduction in

Focuses on the act of making something smaller, lacking the temporary connotation of "a dip in".

a downturn in

Specifically implies an economic or business decline.

a plunge in

Implies a rapid and significant decrease, more dramatic than a dip.

a slump in

Suggests a sudden and severe decline, often in economic terms.

a dive in

Implies a rapid and forceful decline, similar to a plunge.

a trough in

Describes the lowest point in a cycle, emphasizing the temporary nature of the decline.

FAQs

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

You can use "a dip in" to describe a temporary decrease or involvement. For example, "We saw a dip in attendance during the summer months" or "Let's take "a dive in" the pool to cool off".

What's the difference between "a dip in" and "a drop in"?

"A dip in" often implies a smaller, temporary decrease, whereas "a drop in" can suggest a more significant or sudden decrease.

Are there contexts where "a dip in" would be inappropriate?

Yes, using "a dip in" to describe a permanent or significant decline may be misleading. In such cases, consider using phrases like "a decline in" or "a reduction in".

What can I say instead of "a dip in" when referring to a brief swim?

You could use phrases like "a swim in", "a splash in", or simply "going for a swim".