gradually deteriorating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gradually deteriorating" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process of decline or worsening that occurs slowly over time. Example: "The old building has been gradually deteriorating due to lack of maintenance and exposure to the elements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Meanwhile, Suzy was gradually deteriorating.

The New York Times

The chronic disease is a gradually deteriorating onset of auditory hallucinations and psychosis.

The New York Times

She has been in prison at Katsina state jail ever since, her mental state gradually deteriorating as she shares an already cramped cell with five other condemned women.

The Guardian

With the EWA method, the offshore structure is simulated under a predefined Intensifying Wave Train Function (IWTF), corresponding to a gradually deteriorating sea state at a specific site.

Applied Ocean Research

It's not a movie with a formal three-act structure, it just unloads radioactively horrible and fascinating anecdotes in irresistible succession, and you watch Liotta's Henry gradually deteriorating as he becomes his own loyalest customer in the cocaine business.

The Guardian - Film

All these changes are essential if we want to prevent Nato from gradually deteriorating into some kind of "OSCE in uniform" and eventually ending up as just another talking shop for western democracies and like-minded countries.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

After the Communist revolution, the renamed Peace Hotel gradually deteriorated.

The New York Times - Travel

Despite treatment, her condition gradually deteriorated, and she suffered four heart attacks in the last two years.

The Guardian - Music

"It has gradually deteriorated to the point where I can't hold a bat.

The Guardian - Sport

His standing in the field gradually deteriorated, under withering fire from Trump.

The Guardian

For a time she was in a critical condition after her health "gradually deteriorated" in hospital.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gradually deteriorating" to describe processes or situations where the decline is not sudden but occurs over a period. This phrase is effective when you want to emphasize the slow, continuous nature of the decline.

Common error

While "gradually deteriorating" is acceptable in many contexts, be mindful of overuse in highly formal or scientific writing. More precise or technical language may be more appropriate depending on the audience and purpose. Consider alternative wordings to maintain variety and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gradually deteriorating" functions as a descriptive phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a state of progressive decline. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and examples show its widespread use across diverse topics.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

43%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gradually deteriorating" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a slow and continuous decline. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it finds application across diverse contexts, including news, science, and business. While generally neutral in register, writers should consider more precise alternatives for highly formal contexts. Related phrases, such as "slowly worsening" or "progressively declining", offer subtle variations in meaning. When employing this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the gradual nature of the decline you're describing to achieve clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Gradually declining

Direct synonym with a more neutral connotation.

Progressively declining

This alternative suggests a more consistent and measurable decline.

Slowly worsening

This is a more straightforward and less formal way of saying something is getting worse.

Steadily declining

This implies a consistent and predictable rate of decline.

Incrementally decaying

This alternative emphasizes the gradual nature of the decay process.

Slowly eroding

This alternative is more suitable when referring to tangible things that are wearing away.

Bit-by-bit degenerating

Emphasizes a step-by-step deterioration.

Little-by-little failing

Focuses on the idea of something ceasing to function correctly over time.

Imperceptibly decaying

Highlights how subtle the decay is.

Insidiously declining

This suggests a subtle and treacherous decline.

FAQs

How can I use "gradually deteriorating" in a sentence?

You can use "gradually deteriorating" to describe something that is slowly getting worse over time. For example, "The bridge's condition was "gradually deteriorating" due to corrosion".

What are some alternatives to "gradually deteriorating"?

Alternatives include "slowly worsening", "progressively declining", or "steadily declining". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "gradually deteriorating" or "rapidly deteriorating"?

The choice depends on the actual pace of decline. "Gradually deteriorating" indicates a slow decline, while "rapidly deteriorating" suggests a quick decline. Use the phrase that accurately reflects the situation.

What kind of things can be described as "gradually deteriorating"?

You can describe many things as "gradually deteriorating", including health, infrastructure, relationships, environmental conditions, or economic situations. The key is that the decline is slow and continuous.