beginning to decline

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "beginning to decline" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process or trend that is starting to decrease or diminish over time. Example: "The company's profits have been beginning to decline over the past few quarters, raising concerns among investors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

It was beginning to decline.

The New York Times

His pace is beginning to decline.

The Guardian - Sport

Although economic conditions remain broadly favourable, credit quality is beginning to decline.

The Economist

Now that figure is beginning to decline, especially in parts of Southern Europe.

The Economist

Already in some cities, office buildings are beginning to decline in value.

The New York Times

With fertility rates beginning to decline (pdf), this provides our continent with a tremendous opportunity.

The Guardian

Asking rental rates are beginning to decline, Cushman's second-quarter report said.

The New York Times

He was born about the time the town was beginning to decline as a centre of shipbuilding and steel-making.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Downtown began to decline by the 1960s.

The New York Times - Arts

Naturally, seal numbers began to decline.

The New Yorker

Glover's DVD profits began to decline.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "beginning to decline", ensure the context clearly indicates what is experiencing a decrease. For instance, specify whether it's sales, health, or influence. This ensures clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

While "beginning to decline" is grammatically sound, overuse in formal writing can make your prose sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "starting to decrease" or "trending downward" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "beginning to decline" functions as a verb phrase indicating the initial stage of a downward trend or decrease. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "beginning to decline" is a grammatically correct and commonly used verb phrase that indicates the start of a downward trend or decrease. Ludwig AI confirms it's widely accepted in various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science and Wiki sources. While versatile, it's important to specify the subject experiencing the decline for clarity and consider synonyms to avoid repetition in formal writing. The phrase is suitable for neutral registers, making it adaptable for diverse writing needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

starting to decrease

Emphasizes the initial stage of a reduction or lessening in quantity or intensity; more literal.

trending downward

Describes a general direction towards lower values or levels; less intense.

starting to wane

Suggests a gradual decrease in power, influence, or intensity; more figurative.

starting to slump

Suggests a sudden or marked decline, often in sales or performance; less formal.

commencing to diminish

Implies a formal or gradual reduction in size, importance, or intensity; more formal.

beginning to regress

Indicates a return to a previous, less developed state; specifically signals decline in skills or abilities.

initiating a downturn

Highlights the start of a negative trend, often in an economic context; specific to decline.

entering a recession

Specifically denotes the start of a phase of economic contraction; very specific context.

showing early signs of decay

Suggests a process of decomposition or deterioration is starting; negative connotation.

on the verge of collapse

Indicates that something is nearing failure or ruin; more dramatic.

FAQs

How can I use "beginning to decline" in a sentence?

You can use "beginning to decline" to describe something that is starting to decrease or diminish. For example, "The company's profits are beginning to decline" or "His health was beginning to decline after the surgery".

What are some alternatives to "beginning to decline"?

Some alternatives include "starting to decrease", "starting to wane", or "trending downward", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "beginning to decline"?

Yes, "beginning to decline" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase. It accurately describes the initial stage of a reduction or decrease.

What's the difference between "beginning to decline" and "continuing to decline"?

"Beginning to decline" refers to the initial stage of a decrease, while "continuing to decline" indicates that the process of decreasing has already started and is still in progress.