deteriorating condition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deteriorating condition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or state that is worsening over time, often in contexts related to health, environment, or infrastructure. Example: "The patient's deteriorating condition prompted the doctors to take immediate action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Eleven people are still in critical or deteriorating condition.

The New York Times

Andersen's deteriorating condition has continued to affect its overseas affiliates.

The New York Times

Seal's account describes Lee's deteriorating condition in heartbreaking detail.

The New York Times - Books

On her most recent visit, she was struck by Mohamed's deteriorating condition.

The Guardian - Opinion

Military doctors have yet to reach a diagnosis on his deteriorating condition, Simmons said.

The Guardian

Despite his deteriorating condition, Lanza still had access to his family's guns.

The Guardian

Mr. Madrid also argued that the demolition is necessary, based on the building's deteriorating condition.

The New York Times

"Considering the deteriorating condition of the state's finances, this represents a reasonable accommodation".

The New York Times

The fleet's deteriorating condition, in the words of the Coast Guard commandant,Adm.

The New York Times

Yet the band's driving force faced having to relearn the set between shows because of his deteriorating condition.

The Guardian - Music

At best, the deteriorating condition of the financial system will constrain lending and hamstring the economy for a long time.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a gradual decline, use "deteriorating condition" to emphasize the continuous nature of the degradation. For instance, "The patient's deteriorating condition required immediate medical intervention."

Common error

While "deteriorating condition" is widely accepted, avoid using it excessively in highly formal or scientific writing where more precise terminology might be appropriate. Consider alternatives like "progressive decline" or specific medical terms to enhance clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deteriorating condition" functions primarily as a descriptive term, often acting as an adjective modifying a noun. It describes a state that is becoming progressively worse. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "deteriorating condition" is a frequently used phrase to describe something that is worsening over time. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage in various contexts, primarily in news, science, and formal settings. While generally neutral, it can become more formal depending on the context. When writing, use "deteriorating condition" to emphasize a continuous decline, but consider more precise terminology in highly formal settings. Synonyms include "worsening state" and "declining health", offering nuanced alternatives. The phrase serves to convey concern and prompt attention to the problem at hand.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Worsening state

Focuses on the overall state as becoming worse, broader than just 'condition'.

Declining health

Specifically refers to a decline in health status, more precise when health is involved.

Degenerating state

Emphasizes a breakdown or decay in the state, suggesting a loss of function or quality.

Failing shape

Implies a loss of structural integrity or proper function, often used for physical objects or systems.

Crumbling infrastructure

Specifically describes infrastructure that is falling apart, adding a structural context.

Eroding foundations

Suggests a gradual wearing away of underlying support or principles, conveying instability.

Collapsing structure

Emphasizes a sudden and complete failure of a structure, implying imminent breakdown.

Unraveling situation

Suggests a complex situation is falling apart, losing order and control.

Plummeting value

Focuses on a rapid decrease in value, often used in economic or financial contexts.

Diminishing quality

Highlights a reduction in the quality or standard of something, implying a loss of excellence.

FAQs

How can I use "deteriorating condition" in a sentence?

You can use "deteriorating condition" to describe something that is getting progressively worse. For example: "The building's "deteriorating condition" made it unsafe for occupancy".

What are some synonyms for "deteriorating condition"?

Synonyms for "deteriorating condition" include "worsening state", "declining health", or "degenerating state", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "deteriorating condition" or "worsening condition"?

"Deteriorating condition" and "worsening condition" are often interchangeable, but "deteriorating" implies a more gradual and ongoing process of decline. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Can "deteriorating condition" be used to describe both physical and non-physical things?

Yes, "deteriorating condition" can describe physical states, like a building's structure, or non-physical states, such as the "deteriorating condition" of the economy.