decreasing to nil

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "decreasing to nil" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a gradual reduction in quantity or intensity until it reaches zero. Example: "The company's profits have been decreasing to nil over the past few years due to increased competition."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The formation of rHDL from DMPC and apo A-I is rapid up to 20 mol % FC, above which the rate decreases to nil.

Biochemistry

FECs of untreated groups (US+UM) rose to a peak of 375 epg in mid June and gradually decreased to nil at weaning in late July.

Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica

The rate of microsolubilization of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC) membranes by apo A-I to give rHDL increases as the level of membrane free cholesterol (FC) increases up to 20 mol % when the level of reaction decreases to nil.

Biochemistry

For example, although the presence of the Dn1 gene does not make the cultivar Betta- Dn1 less inclined to aphid-induced chlorophyll loss compared to its susceptible near-isogenic line (NIL) Betta (Heng-Moss et al., 2003), the presence of Dn1 in the cultivar Tugela- Dn1 does prevent chlorophyll levels from decreasing to levels observed in its susceptible NIL, Tugela (Botha et al., 2006).

Biology Open

Including zero total event trials in meta-analyses moves the pooled estimate of treatment effect closer to nil, decreases its confidence interval and decreases between-study heterogeneity.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

It decreases to 23 percent".

The New York Times

Their sodium content is next to nil.

The Washington Post

Phone reception is next to nil.

The Guardian - Travel

Scores range from ten (squeaky clean) to nil (highly corrupt).

The Economist

The gel content varied from 55% for pure BA to nil for the 50/50 copolymer.

Polymer

Still, that's 11 shots to nil tonight.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "decreasing to nil" to describe a gradual reduction to zero when precision or a technical context is important.

Common error

Avoid using "decreasing to nil" in casual conversation; opt for simpler alternatives like "disappearing" or "reaching zero" for better flow and naturalness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "decreasing to nil" functions as a descriptive phrase, indicating a gradual reduction in quantity, intensity, or value until it reaches zero. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "decreasing to nil" is a grammatically sound and understandable expression used to describe a process or quantity gradually reducing to zero, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While not overly common, it is most appropriate in formal, scientific, or technical contexts where precision is valued. Alternatives include "diminishing to nothing" and "falling to zero". The phrase's function is descriptive, its purpose is to convey reduction, and its register is generally formal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

diminishing to nothing

Emphasizes the process of becoming nonexistent or insignificant.

falling to zero

Highlights the numerical aspect of reaching a zero value.

reducing to nothing

Focuses on the act of making something smaller until it disappears.

declining to zero

Similar to 'falling to zero' but suggests a more gradual process.

tapering off to nothing

Implies a gradual reduction in intensity or quantity until it vanishes.

vanishing completely

Focuses on the complete disappearance of something.

evaporating entirely

Suggests a disappearance similar to water turning into vapor.

reaching a standstill

Indicates a cessation of movement or activity, implying a reduction to zero.

coming to a complete stop

Focuses on the end of motion or progress.

approaching complete absence

Describes the process of nearing total lack or nonexistence.

FAQs

How can I use "decreasing to nil" in a sentence?

Use "decreasing to nil" to describe a gradual reduction to zero. For example: "The company's profits have been decreasing to nil over the past few years."

What are some alternatives to "decreasing to nil"?

You can use alternatives like "diminishing to nothing", "falling to zero", or "vanishing completely" depending on the context.

Is "decreasing to nil" grammatically correct?

Yes, "decreasing to nil" is grammatically correct and understandable, meaning gradually reducing to zero. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

When is it appropriate to use "decreasing to nil"?

It's most appropriate in technical, scientific, or formal contexts where precision is valued. In casual conversation, simpler phrases might be preferred.