failing physical condition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "failing physical condition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone whose health or physical state is deteriorating or not functioning well. Example: "After years of neglecting his health, he found himself in a failing physical condition, struggling to keep up with daily activities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

He remarked how through the final days of her life, she was increasingly more at peace despite her failing physical condition.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Waived SS Terrence Carroll after failing physical examination.

The New York Times - Sports

Jesse was failing physical therapy.

Huffington Post

The league's transaction report labeled Doucet's release as a terminated contract for "failing to disclose a physical condition".

The New York Times - Sports

That court's amended remittitur shows that the constitutional questions passed upon were whether the 'confession was coerced' and whether the judge erred in failing to instruct the jury that, 'in determining the voluntary nature of the confession, they were to consider his physical condition at the time thereof.' 10 N.Y.2218178 22178.Y.S.2d 52178178 N.E.2d 234.

Cornell University

His physical condition was incredible.

The Guardian - Sport

Last winter, her physical condition deteriorated.

The New York Times

Ultimately his physical condition will determine it".

The New York Times - Arts

And it's absolutely a physical condition.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Some are in dreadful physical condition.

The New York Times

Her physical condition had deteriorated, too.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's health, be specific about the aspects of their "failing physical condition". Instead of a general statement, mention particular symptoms or limitations to provide a clearer picture.

Common error

Avoid using "failing physical condition" as a vague statement without any supporting details. Provide concrete examples of how the condition affects daily life or specific physical functions to enhance clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "failing physical condition" functions as a descriptive term, modifying a noun (person, object, or system) to indicate its state of physical decline or malfunction. This is seen in Ludwig's examples where it describes a person's health or a system's operational status.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "failing physical condition" is a descriptive phrase used to indicate a decline in physical health or functionality. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English, although its frequency is relatively rare. It appears most commonly in news and media, as well as academic contexts, serving to inform or assess the state of an individual's health or a system's operational status. When using the phrase, it's best to provide specific details about the condition to avoid vagueness. Alternative phrases such as "deteriorating health" or "declining physical fitness" may also be used to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deteriorating health

Focuses on the general decline of health rather than the specific physical aspect.

declining health

Similar to deteriorating health, but can imply a more gradual process.

weakening physical state

Emphasizes the decreasing strength and robustness of the body.

declining physical fitness

Specifically refers to the loss of physical fitness and ability.

waning physical strength

Highlights the reduction in physical power and stamina.

debilitating physical condition

Indicates that the physical condition is causing significant weakness or impairment.

crumbling physical health

Uses a stronger metaphor to suggest a severe breakdown of physical health.

fading physical vitality

Emphasizes the loss of energy and liveliness in the physical body.

degenerative physical state

Highlights that the condition is characterized by progressive deterioration.

impaired physical well-being

Focuses on the overall negative impact on physical health and comfort.

FAQs

What are some alternative ways to describe a declining physical state?

You can use alternatives like "deteriorating health", "declining physical fitness", or "waning physical strength" depending on the specific context you wish to convey.

How does "failing physical condition" differ from "chronic illness"?

"Failing physical condition" generally refers to a state of decline in physical health, whereas "chronic illness" describes a long-lasting or recurrent disease. A chronic illness may lead to a "failing physical condition", but the terms are not interchangeable.

Is it more appropriate to say "declining" or "failing" physical condition?

Both "declining" and "failing" are suitable, but "failing" suggests a more advanced stage of deterioration. "Declining" implies a gradual decrease in health, while "failing" suggests that the physical condition is actively deteriorating and approaching a critical point.

What are some common causes that might result in a "failing physical condition"?

A "failing physical condition" can result from various causes, including chronic diseases, aging, injuries, or lifestyle factors. The underlying cause often determines the specific nature and progression of the "failing physical condition".