a time of decline

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a time of decline" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a period characterized by a decrease in quality, quantity, or success in various contexts, such as economics, culture, or personal circumstances. Example: "The company experienced a time of decline after the market crash, leading to significant layoffs and restructuring."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The period between 1700 and about 1770 was a time of decline and slow consolidation in Hungarian literature.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They have to take on additional responsibilities as we try to maintain the quality of experience enjoyed by previous students at a time of decline in funding.

The Guardian

The Late Iron Age (c. 400 800) appears to have been a time of decline and unrest, and, in the 6th century, bubonic plague raged.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The ban — the first in mainland Spain — comes at a time of decline for bullfighting in real terms, if not in emotional power.

The New York Times

Mr. Gandhi is taking over at a time of decline in the fortunes of the Congress party, which suffered a devastating defeat by the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party in 2014 and controls a mere five out of 29 state governments.

The New York Times

The stories of Quigley North and Quigley South Preparatory Seminaries (Chicago, Illinois), and Holy Apostles College and Seminary (Cromwell, Connecticut) provide the case studies for this period, which Anello describes as a time of decline and disorder.

Johns Hopkins University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

For colleges, they are a revenue source at a time of declining public funding.

The New York Times

Instead, he has to build on these reforms at a time of declining public resources.

The New York Times

Perhaps most important, in a time of declining audiences, classical music needs all the help it can get.

The New York Times

At a time of declining union membership and lingering economic turmoil, the strength of organized labor is unclear.

The New York Times

The idea is ambitious: Mold a new kind of musician in a time of declining audiences and — seemingly — dwindling relevance for classical music.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a time of decline", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is declining. Be specific about the area or aspect experiencing the downturn to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a time of decline" without providing specific details about what is declining. For example, instead of saying "the city was in a time of decline", specify "the city was in a time of economic decline due to factory closures."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a time of decline" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It identifies or describes a specific period characterized by deterioration or reduction. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

22%

Encyclopedias

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a time of decline" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a period marked by deterioration or decrease. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity. It is most frequently encountered in news and media, academic writing, and encyclopedias. To ensure clarity, specify what is declining. Alternatives such as ""a period of decay"" or ""an era of regression"" can provide nuanced variations. When using this phrase, avoid overgeneralization by explicitly stating the area or aspect experiencing the downturn.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a period of decay

Emphasizes the process of rotting or decomposition, suggesting a gradual loss of vitality.

a phase of deterioration

Highlights the worsening condition of something over time.

an era of regression

Focuses on a return to a less developed state.

a downward spiral

Implies a rapid and accelerating decline.

a slump in fortunes

Specifically refers to a decline in prosperity or success.

a failing state

Denotes loss of prosperity.

a waning influence

Implies a loss of power or authority.

a receding tide

Evokes the imagery of something diminishing or withdrawing.

a sinking ship

Figuratively refers to an enterprise failing.

the twilight years

Highlights loss of strength and stamina.

FAQs

How can I use "a time of decline" in a sentence?

You can use "a time of decline" to describe a period when something is decreasing in quality, quantity, or importance. For example, "The Roman Empire experienced "a time of decline" due to political instability and economic hardship."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "a time of decline"?

Alternatives include "a period of decay", "an era of regression", or "a downward spiral", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "a time of declining" or "a time of decline"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "a time of decline" is more commonly used to refer to a general period of deterioration. "A time of declining" typically emphasizes the ongoing process of something decreasing.

What distinguishes "a time of decline" from "a period of stagnation"?

"A time of decline" suggests that something is actively getting worse, while "a period of stagnation" implies that something is not progressing or improving but also not necessarily deteriorating. Stagnation is a lack of movement, while decline is a negative trend.