deteriorating over time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deteriorating over time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process where something is gradually becoming worse or declining in quality as time passes. Example: "The condition of the old building has been deteriorating over time, leading to safety concerns for the residents."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Water distribution systems are aging and deteriorating over time.

HBRC Journal

His brain is deteriorating over time, but Omid still feels like he can remember everything.

Vice

In the opera world (where productions may receive less than 10 performances per run), the threat of an artistic concept deteriorating over time is very real.

Huffington Post

In short, there are many corners where things are deteriorating over time and we must dedicate some moments to them when we have a few days leisure.

Huffington Post

Moreover, sequential SPA surveys have yet to be analyzed in ways that provide systematic evidence that service readiness is improving or deteriorating over time.

BMC Health Services Research

A deteriorating neurological course may be anticipated if the signs of neurological function (motor score, brain stem reflexes) are deteriorating over time.

Critical Care

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Without meaningful feedback, a doctor's ability actually deteriorates over time.

The New York Times - Magazine

Though never close friends, Mandela was always publicly supportive of Mbeki's leadership, even though their private relations reportedly deteriorated over time.

The Guardian

Quality refers to design quality, which may deteriorate over time.

European Journal of Operational Research

Visuo-spatial function is spared in the FE but may deteriorate over time.

Schizophrenia Research

Consequently, the representativeness of the cohort in a longitudinal study may deteriorate over time.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing trends or changes, use "deteriorating over time" to clearly indicate a gradual decline or worsening condition. This phrasing provides a sense of ongoing progression, which can be more impactful than simply stating that something is "bad" or "worse".

Common error

Avoid using "deteriorating over time" in overly passive constructions. Instead of saying "The quality was deteriorating over time", consider using active voice: "The quality deteriorated over time". This creates a more direct and engaging sentence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deteriorating over time" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically used as part of a verb phrase to indicate a process of gradual decline. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

42%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "deteriorating over time" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe a gradual decline or worsening of something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it appears commonly in scientific and news contexts. While generally neutral in tone, it's crucial to use the active voice for clearer, more impactful writing. Alternatives like "worsening over time" or "declining over time" can be used depending on the specific nuance desired. The phrase accurately conveys the progression of a negative change, adding depth to descriptions and explanations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

worsening over time

Emphasizes the negative progression of a situation or object with the passage of time.

declining over time

Focuses on the decrease in quality, quantity, or importance as time elapses.

degrading over time

Highlights the reduction in quality or condition due to gradual wear or decay.

decaying over time

Implies a natural process of decomposition or decline with the advancement of time.

eroding over time

Focuses on the gradual wearing away or destruction of something with the passage of time.

diminishing over time

Stresses the gradual reduction in size, amount, or intensity as time progresses.

fading over time

Suggests a gradual loss of color, brightness, or strength with the passage of time.

regressing over time

Indicates a return to a previous, less developed state or condition with the passage of time.

spiraling downward over time

Emphasizes a continuous and rapid decline into a worse state with the progression of time.

collapsing over time

Highlights a sudden and complete failure or breakdown as time goes on.

FAQs

What does "deteriorating over time" mean?

The phrase "deteriorating over time" means that something is gradually becoming worse or declining in quality as time passes. It suggests a process of degradation or decay occurring continuously.

How can I use "deteriorating over time" in a sentence?

You can use "deteriorating over time" to describe the decline of physical objects, relationships, health, or any other situation that is worsening. For example, "The infrastructure is "deteriorating over time" due to lack of maintenance."

What are some alternatives to "deteriorating over time"?

Some alternatives to "deteriorating over time" include "worsening over time", "declining over time", or "degrading over time". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "deteriorating over time" or "deteriorated over time"?

"Deteriorating over time" describes an ongoing process, while "deteriorated over time" describes a completed process. Use "deteriorating over time" when you want to emphasize the continuous nature of the decline. For example, "The patient's health is "deteriorating over time"." Use "deteriorated over time" when the decline is complete or happened in the past.