become extinct

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "become extinct" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a species or other entity ceasing to exist. For example, "The dodo bird became extinct in the 17th century."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Do they become extinct?

The New York Times - Arts

Will they become extinct?

Independent

It's become extinct.

The New York Times

It definitely did not become extinct.

The New Yorker

And then, we will become extinct.

Independent

I worry that editors may become extinct.

The New Yorker

The bootlegger did not become extinct, however.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Why did ground sloths become extinct?

Encyclopedia Britannica

Like endogenous retroviruses, H.I.V. would become extinct.

The New Yorker

New species emerge; old ones become extinct.

The New York Times

Those that do not become extinct.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "become extinct" to describe the process by which a species, concept, or practice ceases to exist. Ensure that the subject is something that can plausibly become extinct, such as a species, a tradition, or a technology.

Common error

Avoid using "become extinct" to describe temporary states or reversible situations. Extinction implies a permanent and irreversible end.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "become extinct" is as a verb phrase indicating the process of something ceasing to exist. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a grammatically correct phrase. Ludwig provides many examples across various contexts where this phrase is used to denote the end of a species, a practice, or even a technology.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "become extinct" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the process by which something ceases to exist. As Ludwig AI confirms, its use spans various contexts, from scientific discussions about species loss to news reports about endangered cultures. The phrase carries a neutral register and is most frequently found in "News & Media" and scientific contexts. While alternatives like "die out" or ""go extinct"" exist, "become extinct" is a widely understood and accepted way to convey the idea of permanent disappearance. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure the subject can plausibly undergo extinction and to avoid using it for temporary or reversible situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

die out

This alternative is shorter and more direct, implying a gradual disappearance.

go extinct

This phrase offers a more concise alternative with nearly identical meaning.

disappear completely

This alternative specifies the thoroughness of the disappearance.

cease to exist

This phrase is more formal and emphasizes the end of existence.

vanish from the earth

This alternative adds a dramatic and evocative element to the concept of extinction.

be wiped out

This phrase indicates a more forceful or sudden disappearance.

become obsolete

This alternative applies primarily to technologies, practices, or ideas that are no longer in use.

fall into oblivion

This phrase suggests a loss of memory or recognition over time.

pass into history

This alternative refers to something that is no longer relevant or current.

meet its end

This option provides a more metaphorical expression for termination of existence.

FAQs

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

You can use "become extinct" to describe the process by which a species, technology, or tradition ceases to exist. For example, "Many species may "go extinct" due to climate change".

What are some synonyms for "become extinct"?

Alternatives to "become extinct" include phrases like "die out", ""go extinct"", or "cease to exist", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say something is "becoming extinct"?

Yes, "becoming extinct" is the present continuous tense of "become extinct" and is used to describe something currently in the process of disappearing. For instance, "The language is "becoming obsolete" as fewer people speak it".

What's the difference between "endangered" and "become extinct"?

"Endangered" describes a species at risk of extinction, while "become extinct" describes the completed state of no longer existing. An endangered species may eventually die out if conservation efforts are unsuccessful.