almost extinct

USAGE SUMMARY

"almost extinct" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is used to describe something that is very close to becoming completely extinct or dying out. Example: "The population of the endangered species was almost extinct, until conservation efforts helped increase their numbers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Italian sportswear seems almost extinct.

The New York Times

This antelope is almost extinct".

The New Yorker

By the 1950s it was almost extinct.

The Economist

"It's a dying art, almost extinct".

The New York Times - Arts

By the 1970s, feudalism was almost extinct.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Restraints on interspousal litigation are almost extinct.

Harvard University

In 2015, landline phones are almost extinct in dorm rooms.

Princeton University

It was almost extinct, sightings have been rare.

The Guardian

This sort of craftsmanship had become almost extinct.

The New York Times

The Vanishing Tie The tie game is almost extinct.

The New York Times - Sports

In many countries the subspecies is now almost extinct.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "almost extinct", ensure the subject is something that can genuinely become extinct, such as a species, language, or tradition. Avoid applying it to abstract concepts that simply diminish in popularity.

Common error

Avoid using "almost extinct" to describe trends or fads that experience a temporary decline in popularity. "Almost extinct" suggests a near-permanent disappearance, not a passing phase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "almost extinct" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies a noun, indicating that the noun is in a state very close to being completely gone or non-existent. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Encyclopedias

14%

Science

14%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "almost extinct" is a commonly used adjective phrase that describes something nearing complete disappearance. Ludwig confirms its correct grammatical standing and usability. It's used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science and Encyclopedias, indicating a situation where something is on the brink of vanishing, whether it be a species, a language, or a practice. When employing this phrase, ensure it aligns with a true threat of extinction rather than a temporary decline. Alternatives like "nearly extinct" or "on the verge of extinction" may be used for variety while maintaining similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nearly extinct

Replaces "almost" with "nearly", a synonym indicating a state close to extinction.

virtually extinct

Indicates extinction is practically a reality, though perhaps not yet officially declared.

on the verge of extinction

Emphasizes the imminence of extinction, suggesting something is about to disappear entirely.

facing extinction

Highlights the threat and danger of extinction, presenting a more active sense of peril.

in danger of disappearing

Highlights the peril and potential loss associated with the subject's decline.

close to disappearing

Focuses on the act of disappearing, highlighting the advanced stage of decline.

dying out

Emphasizes the gradual process of fading away, often used for species or traditions.

becoming extinct

Focuses on the ongoing process of extinction, rather than a static state.

rarely seen

Focuses on the infrequency of sightings, indicating a severe reduction in numbers or prevalence.

on its last legs

An idiomatic expression indicating something is in its final stages of existence or functionality.

FAQs

How can I use "almost extinct" in a sentence?

You can use "almost extinct" to describe something that is very close to disappearing or dying out completely. For example, "The tradition is "almost extinct" in modern society."

What is a more formal way to say "almost extinct"?

A more formal way to say "almost extinct" could be "on the verge of extinction" or "nearly extinct", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "almost extinct" in academic writing?

Yes, "almost extinct" is appropriate in academic writing when accurately describing a subject nearing extinction. Ensure the context supports the severity of the term.

What are some things that can be described as "almost extinct"?

Species, languages, traditions, skills, and practices can all be described as "almost extinct" when they are on the brink of disappearing entirely. For example, "Landline phones are "almost extinct"" or "Feudalism is "almost extinct"".