declined in number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "declined in number" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a decrease in quantity or population over time. Example: "The number of participants in the annual event has declined in number over the past few years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Not only have violent deaths declined in number.

The Guardian - Books

They declined in number thereafter, though total circulation rose.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Central Africa's forest elephants have declined in number by two-thirds between 2002 and 2012.

The Guardian

At the same time, the Irish Catholics who have predominated here since the turn of the century have declined in number, area residents and real estate agents said.

The New York Times

Between 1991 and 2001, Welsh speakers declined in number in the five mostly rural counties where they had been most common.

The Economist

The placard-waving supporters of the WikiLeaks founder had, however, declined in number from the many who attended his previous appearances in central London.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Once-common species such as lapwings, yellow wagtails, skylarks and kestrels have declined in numbers.

The Guardian - Arts

Overall, 76 per cent of the UK's butterflies have declined in numbers since 1975.

Independent

Though some studies show colonies that have declined in numbers or even disappeared, others show they just keep going.

The New York Times - Science

Humanities degrees haven't actually declined in numbers, it's just the proportion of degrees granted is somewhat smaller.

The Guardian

The dolphin had declined in numbers for decades, and efforts to keep the species alive in captivity were unsuccessful.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "declined in number", ensure the context clearly indicates what is decreasing. For example, specify "the population of bees has declined in number" for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "declined in number" when the context implies a decrease in quality or value rather than quantity. Use more appropriate phrases like "declined in quality" or "decreased in value" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "declined in number" functions as a verb phrase followed by a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a reduction in quantity. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is usable in written English and provides several real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "declined in number" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe a reduction in quantity or population. As Ludwig AI states, it is correct and usable in written English. The phrase is versatile, appearing in contexts ranging from news and media to scientific publications and encyclopedias. While generally neutral in tone, it's important to ensure the context is clear about what is declining. Alternative phrases like "decreased in quantity" or "diminished in size" can be used for variety, depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

decreased in quantity

Focuses on the reduction in amount or volume rather than specifically the count.

diminished in size

Highlights the reduction in physical dimensions or scope.

reduced in amount

Similar to decreased in quantity, but with a focus on the overall amount.

shrunk in numbers

Implies a reduction in the quantity or amount.

fallen numerically

Emphasizes the drop in the count or figures.

dwindled in population

Specifically relates to a decrease in the number of inhabitants or members.

dropped in count

Highlights a decrease in the enumerated total.

contracted in size

Suggests a shrinking or reduction in physical dimensions or scope.

lessened in population

Focuses on the reduction of the population size.

lessened in frequency

Indicates a reduction in how often something occurs, not necessarily the number of instances.

FAQs

How can I use "declined in number" in a sentence?

Use "declined in number" to describe a decrease in quantity or population. For example: "The bird population has "declined in number" due to habitat loss."

What can I say instead of "declined in number"?

You can use alternatives such as "decreased in quantity", "diminished in size", or "fallen numerically" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "declined in number" or "decreased in number"?

Both "declined in number" and "decreased in number" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably to describe a reduction in quantity. The choice often depends on stylistic preference.

What's the difference between "declined in number" and "declined in quality"?

"Declined in number" refers to a decrease in quantity, while "declined in quality" indicates a reduction in the standard or grade of something. They address different aspects of change.