declining stature

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "declining stature" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a decrease in importance, influence, or status over time. Example: "The company's declining stature in the industry has raised concerns among its investors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Declining oil prices, and the declining stature of President Hugo Chávez of Venezuela, will also make Mr. Obama's task easier.

The New York Times

It comes in the same week that Germany gave up its most cherished title, world export champion, to China, heightening fears of a declining stature and importance globally.

The New York Times

The shifting emphasis to those markets is part of a broader trend in the industry, and underscores the declining stature of the United States in the global economy.

The New York Times

Becoming a fuller military partner of the United States has been a centerpiece of the prime minister's bid to reverse his nation's declining stature in the region after years of economic stagnation and its relative eclipse by China's rise.

The New York Times

In 2005, Patric M. Verrone, a longtime animation writer, was elected president of the western guild on a promise to shore up the declining stature of unionized writers within the industry.

The New York Times

PAGE C3 TOYOTA EXPECTS DROP Toyota said that its annual profit would probably drop for the first time in nine years because of the slowdown in the United States economy, accelerating a shift into emerging markets like China and Latin America and the Middle East and underscoring the declining stature of the United States in the global economy.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

The unprecedented questioning of a sitting president by the Majles was widely interpreted as a sign of Ahmadinejad's declining political stature.

Encyclopedia Britannica

When adults are asked to think about what the United States will be like in 2050, they see the country declining in stature on the world stage, a widening gap between the haves and the have-nots and growing political polarization.

The Washington Post

Gabii remained an important city-state until declining in stature and population in the second and third centuries CE.

Forbes

The Indianapolis 500, in its earlier years the dominant sporting event of the Memorial Day weekend in the United States, has declined in stature as a result of decades of internecine warfare among teams, organizers and sanctioning bodies, but still manages to produce a major spectacle for the more than 300,000 fans in attendance.

The New York Times

He ended up second to Kel Nagle, who finished with two birdies to win by a shot, but he was hooked and his enthusiasm for the Open was to revive a competition that had declined in stature and relevance as the years rolled by and the Americans stayed at home.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "declining stature" when you want to convey a gradual loss of importance, influence, or reputation, often due to a series of events or changing circumstances. This phrase is particularly effective in formal writing and when discussing abstract concepts like a nation's global standing or a company's market position.

Common error

Avoid using "declining stature" in contexts that require a more immediate or abrupt sense of loss. While "declining stature" suggests a gradual process, consider alternatives like "sudden fall from grace" or "abrupt loss of power" if you need to emphasize a rapid downturn.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "declining stature" functions as a noun phrase, where "declining" acts as a present participle modifying the noun "stature". This phrase describes a state of diminishing importance or reputation, as seen in Ludwig examples where it refers to countries, companies, and individuals.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "declining stature" effectively conveys a gradual loss of importance or influence, suitable for formal contexts like news reports, academic analyses, and professional discussions. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness and provides examples of its usage in reputable sources such as The New York Times and Britannica. While interchangeable with phrases like "waning influence" or "diminishing status", it's important to consider the specific nuance you want to convey. When writing, be aware of the gradual nature of the decline implied by this phrase and avoid using it when a more immediate or abrupt loss is intended. While not overly common, "declining stature" is a valuable tool for expressing concern or observation about negative trends in various fields, particularly where a more formal and analytical tone is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

waning influence

This phrase focuses on the reduction of influence or power.

diminishing status

This alternative emphasizes the reduction in social or professional standing.

fading glory

This phrase uses a more metaphorical and evocative expression, suggesting a loss of past achievements and recognition.

decreasing prominence

This alternative highlights the reduction in visibility and importance.

loss of prestige

This option focuses on the reduction of respect and admiration.

descending rank

This phrase implies a drop in hierarchical position or importance.

weakening position

This alternative suggests a loss of strength and stability.

slipping reputation

This option points to a gradual decline in public perception.

shrinking importance

This phrase highlights the reduction in overall significance.

eroding credibility

This alternative focuses on the loss of believability and trustworthiness.

FAQs

How can I use "declining stature" in a sentence?

You can use "declining stature" to describe a gradual loss of importance or influence. For example, "The company's "declining stature" in the industry has raised concerns among investors."

What are some alternatives to "declining stature"?

Alternatives include "waning influence", "diminishing status", or "loss of prestige", depending on the specific context you want to emphasize.

Is "declining stature" formal or informal?

"Declining stature" is generally considered a formal phrase suitable for professional, academic, or news-related writing. It may sound out of place in casual conversation.

What causes "declining stature"?

A "declining stature" can be caused by various factors, such as economic downturns, poor leadership, increased competition, or shifts in public opinion. The specific cause depends on the context in which the phrase is used.