dwindling in number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dwindling in number" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where the quantity of something is decreasing over time. Example: "The population of the endangered species is dwindling in number, raising concerns among conservationists."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

His supporters are dwindling in number, and so is their appetite for further confrontation.

The Economist

While classic Jewish delis are dwindling in number in New York, Katz's has kept going since 1888.

The New York Times

Then the month-long opposition protests in the capital, Tbilisi, persistent but dwindling in number, briefly turned violent.

The Economist

Community gardens may be dwindling in number, but private gardens are sprouting throughout the city, if the forums on Metro New York Home and Garden provide any guide.

The New York Times

Its fans, many of them weaned from the cradle to sing "You'll Never Walk Alone" to their team, are dwindling in number and in faith.

The New York Times - Sports

Old-fashioned pharmacies are dwindling in number, so much so that just 28percentt of American pharmacies today are independent, said Lou Flacks, president of the Westchester Rockland Society of Pharmacists.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

"But the truth is that the hard-core bigots are dwindling in numbers," he said.

The New York Times

The members, though passionate, are dwindling in numbers, with only 20 these days compared with hundreds in the 1970s.

The New York Times

Finally, the German army, already exhausted and dwindling in numbers, was threatened with disintegration by the revolution in Germany and was abandoned by its allies.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Veterans of the John Rodgers, dwindling in numbers as years pass, planned to have a reunion in October 2006 to coincide with its arrival at Mobile Bay.

The New York Times

Fulham are hopeful of signing Giles Barnes on loan from Derby County as they look to reinforce a Cottagers midfield dwindling in numbers by the day.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dwindling in number" to describe a gradual decrease, often implying a concerning or irreversible trend. For instance, "Species are dwindling in number due to habitat loss."

Common error

Avoid using "dwindling in number" when a more direct term like "decreasing" or "reducing" suffices, especially if the decrease is sudden or easily quantifiable. Reserve it for scenarios where the gradual and potentially irreversible decline is key.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dwindling in number" functions as a descriptive phrase, often used to modify a noun and indicate a gradual reduction in quantity or population. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Wiki

9%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Science

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dwindling in number" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe a gradual decrease in quantity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is particularly prevalent in News & Media contexts, where it serves to highlight concerning trends, such as declining populations or diminishing resources. While alternatives like "decreasing in quantity" or "shrinking in size" exist, "dwindling in number" often carries a stronger connotation of a potentially irreversible decline. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a gradual and concerning reduction, rather than a sudden or easily quantifiable decrease.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

diminishing in numbers

Similar to the original phrase, but uses "diminishing" instead of "dwindling".

decreasing in quantity

Focuses on the reduction of the amount or quantity of something.

lessening in amount

Focuses on the reduction of the total sum or aggregate.

shrinking in size

Emphasizes the reduction in physical dimensions or scope.

declining in population

Specifically refers to a reduction in the number of inhabitants or members.

falling in count

Highlights the decline in a numerical tally or enumeration.

thinning out

Suggests a decrease in density or concentration.

receding in presence

Indicates a decrease in visibility or existence.

waning in strength

Implies a reduction in power, force, or intensity.

reducing in volume

Focuses on the decrease in capacity or space occupied.

FAQs

How can I use "dwindling in number" in a sentence?

You can use "dwindling in number" to describe a gradual decrease in quantity. For example, "The number of bees is "dwindling in number" due to pesticide use".

What are some alternatives to "dwindling in number"?

Alternatives to "dwindling in number" include "decreasing in quantity", "shrinking in size", or "diminishing in numbers", depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "dwindling in number" or "decreasing in number"?

Both phrases are correct, but "dwindling in number" often suggests a more gradual and concerning decline, while "decreasing in number" is a more neutral term for a reduction.

What's the connotation of "dwindling in number"?

"Dwindling in number" carries a connotation of something gradually disappearing, often due to negative circumstances. It suggests a concerning trend that may be difficult to reverse.