decline in form

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "decline in form" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a decrease or deterioration in quality, performance, or physical condition, often in contexts such as sports, art, or health. Example: "The athlete's recent decline in form has raised concerns about his ability to compete at the upcoming championship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Then came a dramatic decline in form.

The Guardian - Sport

The misfortune that struck Roger Federer, the Swiss tennis star, was simply a decline in form.

The Economist

No consideration is given to Inglis' dramatic decline in form or the out-there prospect of naming a Blues centre who can actually score a try.

The Guardian - Sport

So startling has their decline in form been since lifting the Webb Ellis Trophy at the Telstra Stadium in 2003 that such a suggestion seems ludicrous but Wilkinson insists there is little to choose between the world's top sides and believes England can come good when it matters.

The Guardian - Sport

Such has been Stoke's decline in form that there have been suggestions that the amount of high-intensity cricket he has played as an all-rounder has proved too much and that in any case he needs a break, although perhaps not of this kind.

The Guardian - Sport

Ballesteros, who won the Open championship three times, in 1979, 1984 and 1988, and the Masters twice, in 1980 and 1983, as well as captaining the European team to Ryder Cup victory over the US at Valderrama in 1997, retired from competitive golf last year, blaming a decline in form on long-term problems with his back.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

R. J. Heald: Recalled star Stokes substitutes for Bell, ace batter century-less after decline in summer form (name S (rev).; anag.

The Guardian

Factors being considered include predation by grey squirrels or great spotted woodpeckers (not proved), the decline in the form of woodland management known as coppicing (possible) and the huge rise in the numbers of deer (much more likely).

Independent

In contrast to both these trends, Ryan advocates a program of "palliative planning". While designers cannot reverse economic decline, in the form of jobs being sent away over recent decades, they can still rebuild struggling cities around core urban ideas of density and mobility.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

RBS saw a 6% decline in income form its U.S. asset-backed markets business.

Forbes

He was hindered by a decline in the form of Grimmett, who was dropped after the Third Test.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "decline in form" to describe a noticeable reduction in performance, skill, or condition, particularly in contexts like sports, arts, or health. Ensure the subject experiencing the decline is clearly identified.

Common error

Avoid attributing a "decline in form" solely to external factors without considering internal influences like fatigue, stress, or changes in technique. A comprehensive assessment often requires examining both.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "decline in form" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its use to describe a reduction or deterioration in quality, performance, or physical condition.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

23%

Science

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

9%

Formal & Business

9%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "decline in form" is a noun phrase used to describe a reduction in performance, skill, or quality. Ludwig AI confirms that this expression is valid and appropriate in various contexts, particularly in sports, health, and artistic performance. It is widely found in news and media, wiki, and scientific sources, indicating its broad applicability. To enhance writing, ensure you clearly identify the subject experiencing the decline and consider both internal and external factors contributing to it. Alternatives include "deterioration in performance" and "slump in form", offering nuanced ways to express similar concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Deterioration in performance

Emphasizes a worsening of performance over time.

Drop in standards

Focuses on a reduction in the level of quality or achievement.

Slump in form

Implies a sudden and noticeable decrease in performance, often temporary.

Falling off

Suggests a gradual decline in skill or ability.

Decrease in proficiency

Highlights a reduction in skill or expertise.

Regression in ability

Indicates a return to a less developed state of skill.

Worsening condition

Focuses on the deterioration of a physical or mental state.

Losing edge

Suggests a reduction in competitive advantage or sharpness.

Erosion of skill

Emphasizes the gradual loss of a particular skill.

Diminishing capacity

Highlights a reduction in overall ability or potential.

FAQs

How can I use "decline in form" in a sentence?

You can use "decline in form" to describe a decrease in performance or quality, as in "The athlete's recent "decline in form" is concerning" or "The team's "decline in form" has cost them several matches."

What can I say instead of "decline in form"?

Alternatives to "decline in form" include "deterioration in performance", "drop in standards", or "slump in form" depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to use "decline in form" or "drop in form"?

"Decline in form" and "drop in form" are similar, but "decline" suggests a more gradual decrease, while "drop" implies a more sudden change. Choose the term that best reflects the nature of the change you're describing.

What factors might contribute to a "decline in form"?

A "decline in form" can result from various factors, including physical fatigue, mental stress, changes in training regimen, injuries, or external pressures. Identifying the root cause often requires a thorough assessment.