growing weaker

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "growing weaker" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a gradual decline in strength, effectiveness, or intensity over time. Example: "As the storm approached, the winds began growing weaker, signaling that the worst was over."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

He was having trouble breathing and was growing weaker.

The New Yorker

Nevertheless, rather than growing weaker, she seems to have become more formidable.

The New Yorker

"While Republicans think ISIS is strong and growing stronger, Obama thinks it's weak and growing weaker".

The New Yorker

It was tired from so much screeching, and its voice was growing weaker.

The New Yorker

But now I can see in photos that he, like Mal, was growing weaker.

The Guardian - Books

Mr. Amini is still alert but growing weaker, according to his supporters.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

She felt that she was growing weak, that hot, silent billows were coursing along her spine.

The New Yorker

I do suggest we exercise rights that are growing weak, and will grow weaker, if allowed to atrophy further.

Huffington Post

But even I'm growing weak and frustrated with his work.

Vice

I felt my voice growing weak though, after almost six months of overuse.

Huffington Post

I grew weaker with every passing day.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "growing weaker", consider the specific context. Is it physical strength, influence, or an abstract concept like an argument? Choose the alternative that best fits the nuance you intend to convey.

Common error

While "growing weaker" is acceptable, avoid overuse in formal contexts. Vary your language by using synonyms like "declining", "diminishing" or "deteriorating" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "growing weaker" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a present participle construction, describing an ongoing process of losing strength or effectiveness. Ludwig shows examples where this phrase is used to depict a gradual decline in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Wiki

6%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "growing weaker" is a grammatically correct and common way to describe a gradual decline in strength, power, or effectiveness. As Ludwig AI affirms, the expression is widely used and understandable. Predominantly found in news and media sources, it maintains a neutral register and can be adapted across different contexts. To enhance writing, consider replacing it with synonyms like "becoming feebler" or "losing strength" for variety, especially in formal contexts. Remember to tailor your choice to best reflect the nuance you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

losing strength

Emphasizes the active process of diminishing power.

diminishing

Highlights a reduction in size, importance, or intensity.

failing

Suggests a loss of functionality or effectiveness.

becoming feebler

Focuses on a physical decline in strength or health.

deteriorating

Indicates a worsening condition or state.

declining in vigor

Highlights a reduction in energy and vitality.

degenerating

Implies a decline in quality or moral character.

waning

Suggests a gradual decrease, often in influence or power.

fading away

Implies a gradual disappearance or diminishing presence.

succumbing

Focuses on yielding to an overwhelming force or condition.

FAQs

How can I use "growing weaker" in a sentence?

You can use "growing weaker" to describe a gradual decline in strength, effectiveness, or health. For example: "As the days passed, his grip on reality was "growing weaker"."

What are some alternatives to "growing weaker"?

Some alternatives include "becoming feebler", "losing strength", or "declining in vigor". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "growing weaker" or "becoming weaker"?

Both "growing weaker" and "becoming weaker" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. "Growing weaker" often implies a more gradual and continuous decline.

What does it mean when someone says something is "growing weaker"?

When something is "growing weaker", it means it is gradually losing its strength, power, or effectiveness over time.