drops in form

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "drops in form" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a decline or decrease in quality, performance, or appearance. Example: "The athlete experienced drops in form during the competition, which affected his overall performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"Things will happen to people: there will be injuries and drops in form.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Undoubtedly the surprise success of the Championship season so far has been Huddersfield who, under David Wagner, dropped only two points from their opening six games and remain just outside the top two, despite a drop-off in form.

The Guardian - Sport

Along with Bath's new skills coach, Darren Edwards, head coach at Newport Dragons until last February, Ford has decided to limit the amount of kicking he does, partly in the hope of stopping the drop-off in form the fly-half suffered at the end of last season.

The Guardian - Sport

Understandable, you might say, given the fiscal challenge of four Tests in as many weeks, the price of tickets amid an ongoing recession and the drop-off in form.

BBC

But it also detailed his drop-off in form since 2010, comparing the points he has scored at this stage of the last three seasons with those of Alonso.

BBC

He then experienced a drop in form, with only one significant score, 46 against Wellington, for seven innings.

Wikipedia

It is also hard to see how United could develop without Rooney's services, despite his current drop in form.

Independent

But Meulensteen does not believe that Rooney is at fault for his drop in form and instead identified Louis van Gaal's tactics for restricting the England skipper.

Independent

St George Illawarra and South Sydney will look to put an end to an alarming drop in form that has both teams on the verge of dropping out of the top eight at the SCG on Saturday night.

The Guardian - Sport

Much of the turnaround in the match has also come from a drop in form for Stosur, who has been pounding forehands long and slicing backhands into the net.

The New York Times

Having joined Madrid for £33m in 2012, the Spaniards would want a significant return on any deal, and Modric is unlikely to come cheap despite drop in form since his Tottenham days.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a temporary setback, consider using "dip in form" instead of "drops in form" to convey a less severe and more transient decline.

Common error

Avoid using "drops in form" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language with synonyms like "decline in performance" or "reduction in quality" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "drops in form" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb or preposition. It refers to instances where there is a noticeable decline or deterioration in someone's or something's usual level of performance or quality. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

16%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "drops in form" is a grammatically correct and understandable way to describe a decline in performance or quality. Ludwig AI analysis reveals its frequent occurrence in News & Media, indicating a neutral register and common usage in reporting contexts. Related phrases include "decline in performance" and "reduction in quality". While "drops in form" is suitable in many situations, varying your language and considering less severe alternatives like "dip in form" can enhance clarity and engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dip in form

Suggests a temporary and slight decrease in performance.

decline in performance

Emphasizes a reduction in overall effectiveness.

decrease in ability

Focuses specifically on a diminished capacity to perform.

deterioration in condition

Suggests a worsening state or quality.

falling off in skill

Highlights a reduction in proficiency.

slump in form

Implies a sudden and noticeable decline.

reduction in quality

Focuses on a decrease in the standard or grade.

waning performance

Suggests a gradual fading or weakening of performance.

regression in skill

Indicates a return to a less developed state of ability.

nosedive in performance

Suggests a sudden and severe decrease in performance.

FAQs

What does "drops in form" mean?

"Drops in form" refers to a decline or decrease in the quality, performance, or condition of someone or something. It indicates a reduction in effectiveness or skill.

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

You can use "drops in form" to describe a sports player's performance, a company's sales, or any situation where there's a noticeable decline. For example, "The athlete experienced "drops in form" during the competition."

What are some alternatives to "drops in form"?

Alternatives include "decline in performance", "reduction in quality", or "dip in form", depending on the context.

Is it "drops in form" or "drop in form"?

Both "drops in form" and "drop in form" are acceptable, but "drops in form" suggests a more significant or repeated decline, while "drop in form" can indicate a singular instance.