decreasing in size

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "decreasing in size" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing something that is becoming smaller or reducing in dimensions or volume. Example: "The balloon is slowly decreasing in size as the air escapes."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

Lobsters are decreasing in size, and many of them are being caught before they reach sexual maturity.

The New York Times

The tectrices cover the bases of the remiges, overlapping and decreasing in size toward the leading edge of the wing.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As Richard Campbell, an ONS statistician, told the Telegraph, "Our price collectors noticed that chocolate bars and bags of sweets were decreasing in size by around 10 percent so we felt it was important to inform the public".

The New York Times

Laptops are increasing gaining in desktop-ish power, while decreasing in size.

TechCrunch

Serial neuroimaging revealed the hematoma was slightly decreasing in size.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

In general, decreasing in size of incorporated particles provides acceleration of ion exchange.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

Adenoids normally decrease in size after childhood.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Demonstrations have gradually decreased in size and emotion.

The New York Times

Album art decreased in size years ago in the move from vinyl records to CD's.

The New York Times - Tech

Chatter marks in a series commonly decrease in size downstream.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The adenoids tend to decrease in size during adulthood.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "decreasing in size" with specific measurements or quantifiable data whenever possible to provide concrete evidence of the change. Example: "The tumor decreased in size from 5 cm to 2 cm after treatment."

Common error

Avoid using "losing size" as a direct substitute for "decreasing in size". "Losing size" is less precise and can be ambiguous. Instead, clearly state that something is "decreasing in size" to convey a reduction in dimensions or magnitude.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "decreasing in size" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a reduction in physical dimensions, volume, or magnitude. It describes a process or state of becoming smaller. Ludwig provides many examples to confirm this, supporting the accurate and common use of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

28%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

12%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "decreasing in size" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a reduction in physical dimensions or magnitude. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage across various contexts. It functions primarily as a descriptive phrase, providing clear and precise information about a change in size. While applicable in informal settings, it is particularly prevalent in scientific, news, and formal contexts, demonstrating its versatility and acceptance in both professional and general communication. Related phrases such as "shrinking in dimensions" and "diminishing in magnitude" offer alternative ways to express similar ideas, and these are important to consider for writing with accuracy and clarity. The contexts for its use vary, from scientific papers to news articles, highlighting its broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shrinking in dimensions

Emphasizes a reduction in physical measurements or scope.

diminishing in magnitude

Focuses on a reduction in overall importance or impact.

reducing in area

Specifies a decrease in the surface area covered.

contracting in expanse

Highlights a shrinking or lessening of spread or scope.

lessening in extent

Indicates a decrease in the degree or range of something.

declining in volume

Emphasizes a reduction in three-dimensional space occupied.

getting smaller

A more general and informal way to express a reduction in size.

reducing in proportions

Specifies reducing the relationship of one thing to another or to the whole.

waning in dimensions

Emphasizes the fading of appearance of dimensions.

attenuating in length

Highlights a reduction in the measurable distance of something.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is "decreasing in size"?

When something is described as "decreasing in size", it means that its dimensions, volume, or overall physical extent is becoming smaller over time or in comparison to a previous state.

What are some synonyms for "decreasing in size"?

Alternatives to "decreasing in size" include "shrinking in dimensions", "diminishing in magnitude", or "reducing in area" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "decreasing in size"?

Yes, "decreasing in size" is grammatically correct and widely used in both formal and informal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "decreasing in size"?

The phrase "decreasing in size" is appropriate in various contexts, including scientific reports, news articles, and general descriptions where you need to indicate a reduction in physical dimensions or scope. For example, describing a tumor decreasing in size, a population decreasing in size, or an ice sheet decreasing in size.