have collapsed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have collapsed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has fallen down or failed, often in a figurative sense, such as systems, structures, or plans. Example: "The negotiations have collapsed after both parties failed to reach an agreement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Houses have collapsed.

Independent

Hospitals have collapsed.

The New York Times

All defenses have collapsed.

The New York Times

Schools have collapsed.

The New York Times

Music sales have collapsed.

The Economist

Four governments have collapsed.

The Economist

Meanwhile, employment benefits have collapsed.

The New York Times

His poll ratings have collapsed.

The Economist

Three previous trials have collapsed.

Independent

Supermarkets have collapsed to rubble.

The New York Times

Candidates have collapsed before!

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "have collapsed" to describe a sudden or significant failure, decline, or breakdown. Ensure the context clearly indicates what has failed (e.g. "negotiations have collapsed", "buildings have collapsed").

Common error

Avoid using "have collapsed" to describe gradual or subtle changes. Opt for words like "declined", "diminished", or "deteriorated" to accurately reflect the nature of the change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have collapsed" functions as a verb phrase, typically serving as the predicate of a sentence. According to Ludwig AI, it describes a state where something has suddenly failed, broken down, or fallen apart. Examples from the provided data showcase its use in describing physical structures, systems, and abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "have collapsed" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe situations where something has failed, broken down, or fallen apart suddenly. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Formal & Business settings. When using this phrase, consider the nuance it provides – emphasizing a sudden and often irreversible failure. Alternative phrases such as "have fallen apart" or "have failed" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context. Avoid using it for gradual changes; instead, opt for words like "declined" or "deteriorated". The phrase appears authoritative sources like The New York Times, The Economist and The Guardian. Proper usage ensures clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have fallen apart

Emphasizes the disintegration or breaking down of something into separate parts.

have broken down

Focuses on the cessation of function or operation.

have disintegrated

Highlights the process of losing cohesion or strength.

have failed

Indicates a lack of success or a negative outcome.

have crumbled

Suggests a gradual deterioration or decay.

have declined

Implies a decrease in quality, quantity, or importance.

have diminished

Emphasizes a reduction in size, extent, or impact.

have deteriorated

Focuses on the worsening of condition or state.

have capsized

Describes the overturning of a boat or similar object, figuratively suggesting a sudden and complete failure.

have imploded

Implies a sudden and violent collapse inward.

FAQs

How can I use "have collapsed" in a sentence?

The phrase "have collapsed" indicates a sudden failure or breakdown. For example: "The building's roof and walls "have collapsed" due to the earthquake", or "The peace talks "have collapsed" after months of negotiations".

What can I say instead of "have collapsed"?

You can use alternatives like "have failed", "have fallen apart", or "have broken down" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "have collapsed" versus "have declined"?

"Have collapsed" suggests a sudden and dramatic failure, while "have declined" indicates a gradual decrease or weakening. Use "have collapsed" for situations where something fails abruptly, and "have declined" for situations involving a gradual reduction.

Which is correct, "the building has collapsed" or "the building have collapsed"?

"The building has collapsed" is correct. "Has" is used with singular nouns (building), while "have" is used with plural nouns. The correct form depends on whether the subject is singular or plural.