dip in form

USAGE SUMMARY

"dip in form" is not a correct expression in written English.
If you want to refer to the “form” of something, you could use phrases such as “shape” or “appearance” instead. For example, you could say, “The bird’s wings have an elegant dip in their shape.”.

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"A dip in?" "A dip in form?" "No, no, no.

The Guardian - Sport

Barcelona's recent dip in form has been fleeting.

The Guardian - Sport

After a dip in form, Eriksen has his mojo back.

The Guardian - Sport

In 2012, Fields suffered a dip in form.

The Guardian - Tech

McIlroy's dip in form is not the major worry.

The New York Times - Sports

"He's only 18 and you are going to suffer a dip in form.

The Guardian - Sport

McIlroy suffered from a dip in form when switching to Nike equipment in 2013.

The Guardian - Sport

Cooper said a new coach or injured players shouldn't be blamed for their dip in form.

The Guardian - Sport

Quizzed yet again about his dip in form, he responded robustly.

The Guardian - Sport

Worst of times A dramatic dip in form after she came out as gay in 1999.

The Guardian - Sport

If Michael has a dip in form people say he's finished.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to someone's or something's level of performance, use more precise language such as "decline in performance" or "reduction in effectiveness" to ensure clarity and grammatical accuracy.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "dip in form" in formal writing. While it's frequently found in sports journalism, it is grammatically questionable. Opt for alternatives like "decline in performance" or "decrease in effectiveness" for better clarity and correctness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dip in form" functions as a noun phrase describing a temporary decline in performance or condition. While widely used, especially in sports contexts, Ludwig AI identifies it as not being a correct expression in written English, recommending more grammatically sound alternatives.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dip in form" is frequently encountered in news and media, particularly in sports reporting, to describe a temporary decline in performance. However, Ludwig AI flags it as grammatically incorrect. While widely understood, it is advisable to use more precise and grammatically sound alternatives such as "decline in performance", "reduction in effectiveness", or "slip in performance level" to ensure clarity and correctness in writing. Using these alternatives enhances professionalism and avoids grammatical ambiguities. It's crucial to be mindful of grammatical correctness, even when common phrases are prevalent in specific contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

decline in performance

Replaces "form" with the more general "performance", indicating a decrease in overall effectiveness.

drop in standard

Substitutes "form" with "standard", highlighting a reduction in the expected level of quality.

setback in condition

Uses "setback" to emphasize a temporary regression in physical or athletic condition.

falling off in ability

Emphasizes a gradual reduction in skill or competence, using "falling off" to suggest a downward trend.

lapse in shape

Replaces "form" with "shape", pointing to a temporary decline in physical fitness or readiness.

deterioration in condition

Highlights a worsening state of physical or athletic preparedness.

decrease in effectiveness

Focuses on a reduction in the capacity to produce a desired result or outcome.

reduction in fitness

Specifically addresses a decline in physical health and capability.

slip in performance level

Indicates a slight decline from a previously maintained level of performance.

waning in capacity

Suggests a gradual decrease in the ability to perform or function effectively.

FAQs

What does "dip in form" mean?

The phrase "dip in form" usually refers to a temporary decline in someone's performance, typically in sports. While common, it is not considered grammatically correct and more precise alternatives are recommended.

How can I use "dip in form" in a sentence?

While "dip in form" is frequently used in sports contexts, it's better to use phrases like "decline in performance" or "reduction in effectiveness" for clarity. For example, "The athlete experienced a "decline in performance" after the injury".

What can I say instead of "dip in form"?

You can use alternatives like ""decline in performance"", "reduction in effectiveness", or "slip in performance level" depending on the context to maintain grammatical correctness and clarity.

Which is correct, "dip in form" or "decline in form"?

"Decline in form" is grammatically correct. While "dip in form" is commonly used, especially in sports, it is considered grammatically questionable. Opt for "decline in form" or similar alternatives for better accuracy.