dwindles

USAGE SUMMARY

"dwindles" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe something that gradually decreases in size, amount, or strength. Example: "As the sun set, the light dwindles until darkness enveloped the landscape." Alternative expressions include "decreases" and "diminishes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Once you reach a certain age, your appreciation of what is appropriate for a teenage girl dwindles to almost nothing.

The Guardian - Opinion

As the most accessible resources are exhausted, the supply dwindles.

The Economist

Ironically, the turning-point came earlier this year, when it was suggested that, as the supply of Treasury bonds dwindles thanks to the federal government's surplus, mortgage-agency debt could replace them as the benchmark used for pricing other fixed-income securities.

The Economist

If private demand for dollars dwindles too fast, he expects the same thing to happen again.China, in particular, has little to gain from a dollar crash.

The Economist

Its amount varies according to the investor's age: expected lifetime income from work is high when investors are young and dwindles to nothing at retirement.

The Economist

Even as the population dwindles, churches are thriving, with congregations spilling out on to the streets.

The Economist

As Mr Prince's bulk dwindles he looks for amateur races, trying Wincanton and Chepstow, then finally finds one at Towcester, a course that is, in the words of the champion jockey, A.P. McCoy, "a bit of a bastard".Suddenly the training is up, his weight is down, and race day is upon him.

The Economist

A switch to renewable power would cut dependence on oil and natural gas as national production of both dwindles.

The Economist

As the supply of crude oil dwindles and the price thus rises, anything that makes the process of prospecting new wells cheaper is to be welcomed.

The Economist

But when translated into Chinese yuan that return dwindles to just 0.3%.History is full of examples of sovereign nations failing to pay their overseas creditors in full.

The Economist

As unemployment dwindles, workers will bid up their wages and firms will be forced to pass higher labour costs on to customers.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dwindles" to describe a gradual reduction in quantity, size, or intensity. It's most effective when emphasizing a slow and continuous decline.

Common error

Avoid using "dwindles" when a sudden or abrupt decrease is intended. Opt for words like "plummets" or "collapses" to convey a rapid decline instead of a gradual one.

Linguistic Context

The verb "dwindles" functions primarily to describe a gradual reduction or decrease in something. As supported by Ludwig, it implies a slow and continuous decline rather than an abrupt change. This is visible in examples where it describes populations, supplies, or even abstract concepts like credibility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Encyclopedias

9%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "dwindles" is a verb that describes a gradual reduction, commonly found in News & Media, and Encyclopedia sources. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. Use it to depict a slow and continuous decline, and consider synonyms such as "diminishes" or "decreases" for variety. Remember to avoid using "dwindles" for sudden or abrupt decreases; other terms are more appropriate in those contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

diminishes

Emphasizes a gradual reduction in size, importance, or intensity.

decreases

Indicates a reduction in quantity, size, or degree.

lessens

Suggests a reduction in amount, degree, or severity.

fades away

Implies a gradual disappearance or decline.

tapers off

Conveys a gradual reduction towards the end.

shrinks

Focuses on a reduction in physical size or scope.

ebbs

Describes a receding or weakening, often used for tides or emotions.

subsides

Suggests a calming down or decrease in intensity.

wanes

Implies a decline in power, influence, or extent.

abates

Indicates a reduction in intensity or degree, often in the context of something negative.

FAQs

How can I use "dwindles" in a sentence?

You can use "dwindles" to describe something that gradually decreases in size, amount, or strength. For example, "As the day ends, the sunlight "dwindles"."

What are some alternatives to the word "dwindles"?

Alternatives to "dwindles" include "diminishes", "decreases", or "lessens". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "dwindles" in formal writing?

Yes, "dwindles" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when describing a gradual decline or reduction. However, ensure the tone aligns with the overall formality of the piece.

What's the difference between "dwindles" and "disappears"?

"Dwindles" implies a gradual reduction until something becomes insignificant, while "disappears" suggests a complete vanishing or cessation. For example, hope "dwindles", but a magician "disappears".