becoming smaller

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "becoming smaller" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a process of reduction in size or quantity. Example: "The ice cube is becoming smaller as it melts." Alternative expressions include "getting smaller," "shrinking," and "diminishing."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

With the threshold pressure gradient becoming smaller, the recovery ratio becomes higher.

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

Systems based on inertial technology are becoming smaller, lighter and less expensive, and may hence become increasingly feasible for routine clinical use as previously suggested [ 12, 16].

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

Phones are becoming smaller, phone books bigger.

The New Yorker

Her cell phones keep becoming smaller.

The New York Times

Or maybe the players are becoming smaller.

The New York Times - Sports

Becoming smaller has so far proved to be more profitable.

The New York Times

Drones are becoming smaller and smarter, and are operating underwater.

The Guardian

I regard this as inverse Sarkozy syndrome: trying to seem smaller without actually becoming smaller.

The Guardian

With NBC Sports becoming smaller, ABC and ESPN are interested in Costas.

The New York Times - Sports

"There's a feeling that Europe is becoming smaller and less important.

The New York Times

"With hybrid, the batteries are becoming smaller and much stronger, so the efficiency is increasing.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts such as influence or market share, use "becoming smaller" to effectively convey a reduction in scope or impact.

Common error

Avoid using "becoming smaller" to describe situations where the reduction is permanent and irreversible. Instead of saying "The company is becoming smaller after the bankruptcy", consider phrases like "The company has shrunk" or "The company has been reduced in size".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "becoming smaller" functions as a dynamic descriptor, indicating an ongoing process of reduction in size, amount, or degree. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use across various contexts, from physical dimensions to abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

40%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "becoming smaller" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe a process of diminishing size, quantity, or significance. Ludwig AI's analysis reveals that it is most commonly found in scientific and news contexts, suggesting a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. While synonyms like "shrinking" and "diminishing" offer alternatives, it's crucial to avoid misusing "becoming smaller" in irreversible situations. Furthermore, "becoming smaller" is validated as correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shrinking

This alternative directly implies a reduction in physical size.

reducing in size

A more explicit and literal way of expressing the same idea.

diminishing

Implies a gradual decrease in size, extent, or importance.

lessening

Focuses on a reduction in amount, degree, or intensity.

dwindling

Suggests a continuous and rapid decline.

getting more compact

Emphasizes the idea of something becoming denser as it reduces in size.

contracting

Implies a reduction in size through drawing together or inward.

tapering off

Describes a gradual reduction, often to a point.

becoming more limited

Focuses on the aspect of restriction or scarcity.

losing ground

Suggests a decline in power, influence, or status.

FAQs

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

You can use "becoming smaller" to describe a reduction in size, quantity, or importance. For example, "The ice cube is "becoming smaller" as it melts" or "The company's market share is "becoming smaller" due to increased competition".

What are some synonyms for "becoming smaller"?

Some synonyms for "becoming smaller" include "shrinking", "diminishing", "lessening", and "reducing in size". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say something is "becoming smaller and smaller"?

Yes, it is perfectly correct to say something is "becoming smaller and smaller". This emphasizes a continuous or gradual reduction in size. For instance, "The remaining areas are "becoming smaller and smaller", and hence harder to detect".

How does "becoming smaller" differ from "getting smaller"?

The phrases "becoming smaller" and "getting smaller" are often interchangeable. However, "becoming smaller" can sometimes imply a more gradual or process-oriented change, while "getting smaller" might suggest a more immediate or noticeable reduction. The choice often depends on stylistic preference.