becoming extinct

USAGE SUMMARY

"becoming extinct" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a process or state of something gradually disappearing or dying out. You can use it in a sentence like this: The species of animal is becoming extinct due to loss of habitat and poaching.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The scenario could become a reality as super-adaptable rats take advantage of larger mammals becoming extinct, an expert predicts.

Independent

Braille is in danger of becoming extinct.

The New Yorker

Village shops and pubs are becoming extinct".

The New York Times

Species are becoming extinct in vast numbers.

The New York Times

Not that the Portuguese are becoming extinct.

The New York Times

Species are, it is true, becoming extinct.

The New York Times

How fast are they becoming extinct at present?

Encyclopedia Britannica

Most Athabaskan languages are in danger of becoming extinct.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It could even help those species from becoming extinct.

The New York Times

Unlike rock shrines, they are in danger of becoming extinct.

The Guardian - Music

"Up to 150 species are becoming extinct every day...

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about endangered species, use "becoming extinct" to describe the process of a species population declining to the point of extinction.

Common error

Avoid using "becoming extinct" loosely for trends or fads; reserve it for serious, factual contexts like endangered species, languages, or traditions facing actual disappearance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "becoming extinct" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun or adjective. It describes a continuous process or state, indicating that something is in the process of disappearing. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correctly used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "becoming extinct" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that describes the process of something disappearing or dying out. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a valid and useful phrase in written English. It's most commonly found in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts, often serving to inform or warn about the decline of species, languages, or cultural practices. While versatile, it’s best reserved for situations involving factual decline rather than trivial trends. Alternatives like "facing extinction", "dying out", and "vanishing" offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

facing extinction

Focuses on the imminence and potential of extinction, highlighting the immediate threat.

approaching extinction

Emphasizes the ongoing nature of the process, suggesting a gradual movement towards extinction.

on the verge of extinction

Highlights the proximity to the final stage of extinction, indicating a critical situation.

nearing extinction

Similar to approaching extinction, but with a sense of reduced distance to the event.

dying out

More informal and focuses on the process of fading away, applicable to species or customs.

vanishing

Emphasizes the disappearance aspect, implying a reduction in visibility or presence.

in decline

Focuses on the decreasing numbers or influence, indicating a downward trend.

becoming endangered

Highlights the classification of a species as threatened, indicating the need for conservation efforts.

facing oblivion

More dramatic, suggesting complete erasure or forgetting.

on the decline

Similar to 'in decline', focusing on the process of decreasing or weakening.

FAQs

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

You can use "becoming extinct" to describe a species, a language, or a tradition that is in the process of disappearing. For example, "The Sumatran tiger is "facing extinction" due to deforestation and poaching."

What are some alternatives to "becoming extinct"?

Alternatives include "endangered", "threatened", "vanishing", or "dying out". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "becoming extinct" for non-biological entities?

Yes, while often used for species, "becoming extinct" can also describe languages, traditions, or skills that are disappearing. However, ensure the context is serious and reflects an actual decline, not just a temporary trend.

What is the difference between "becoming extinct" and "going extinct"?

"Becoming extinct" describes the process or the state of declining towards extinction. "Going extinct" often refers to a more immediate or eventual outcome. The subtle difference lies in the emphasis on the process versus the final result.