a precipitous fall

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a precipitous fall" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sudden and steep decline, whether in a physical sense or metaphorically, such as in stock prices or personal circumstances. Example: "The company experienced a precipitous fall in profits after the scandal was made public."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was a precipitous fall.

The New York Times - Sports

But for the once mighty "Idol," it is a precipitous fall.

The New York Times

Adrenal crisis is characterized by fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and a precipitous fall in blood pressure.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Her exit would be a precipitous fall for a trusted lieutenant of Mr. Dimon.

The New York Times

The alley's closing is a precipitous fall from the fanfare that accompanied its opening.

The New York Times

For a one-time Olympic golden boy, it was a precipitous fall.

The New York Times

And the stripping out of internal democracy has been accompanied by a precipitous fall in membership.

The Guardian - Opinion

Although they do not rely on Iwamura for power, it has been a precipitous fall.

The New York Times - Sports

While newspapers nearly everywhere have been cutting back, the recession in Spain has set off a precipitous fall in advertising.

The New York Times

For the accuser, Nafissatou Diallo, a 33-year-old Guinean immigrant, the result caps a precipitous fall.

The New York Times

Amid its revolutionary turmoil, Egypt has suffered a precipitous fall in foreign reserves and has trouble paying for fuel.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a precipitous fall" to describe a situation where a decline is both sudden and significant, adding a sense of drama or urgency to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a precipitous fall" for minor or gradual decreases. The phrase implies a substantial and rapid drop, so ensure the context warrants such a strong description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a precipitous fall" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a state or event characterized by a sudden and steep decline. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is valid and suitable for use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a precipitous fall" is a valid and frequently used phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, that effectively communicates a sudden and significant decline. Predominantly found in News & Media, Academic, and Encyclopedia sources, it adds a sense of drama and urgency to writing. To ensure correct usage, apply it when describing substantial and rapid drops, avoiding it for minor or gradual decreases. Consider alternatives such as "a sharp decline" or "a steep drop" based on the specific context. By understanding its nuances, writers can effectively leverage this phrase to enhance their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sharp decline

Focuses on the quickness and extent of the decrease.

a steep drop

Emphasizes the angle and severity of the fall.

a rapid descent

Highlights the speed at which something is falling.

a sudden downturn

Refers to a negative shift, often in economic or business contexts.

a marked decrease

Indicates a noticeable reduction in amount or degree.

a dramatic collapse

Suggests a sudden and complete failure.

a swift plunge

Implies a fast and forceful drop.

a considerable reduction

Highlights the magnitude of the decrease.

a notable depreciation

Specifically refers to a decline in value.

a significant weakening

Suggests a loss of strength or effectiveness.

FAQs

How can I use "a precipitous fall" in a sentence?

This phrase typically describes a sudden and significant decline. For example, "The company experienced "a precipitous fall" in stock value after the scandal."

What's the difference between "a precipitous fall" and "a sharp decline"?

While both describe a decrease, "a precipitous fall" suggests a more sudden and dramatic drop than "a sharp decline". Precipitous implies a very steep and rapid descent.

What are some alternatives to using "a precipitous fall"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "a steep drop", "a rapid descent", or "a sudden downturn".

Is it appropriate to use "a precipitous fall" in formal writing?

Yes, it is appropriate. The phrase is frequently used in news articles, academic papers, and other forms of formal writing to describe significant declines. Ensure your context suits the gravity of the phrase.