in collapse

USAGE SUMMARY

"in collapse" is a correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation or state of something falling apart or deteriorating. For example: - The company was in collapse as their sales continued to decline. - The building was in collapse after the earthquake hit. - The government was in collapse, unable to handle the crisis.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

In Appalachia, the Coal Industry Is in Collapse, But the Mountains Aren't Coming Back.

Huffington Post

It's just another infrastructure in collapse.

The New York Times

None was in collapse.

The Guardian

Housing is in collapse.

The New York Times

Today that economy is in collapse.

The New York Times

But neither is it in collapse.

The New Yorker

Gazans are grappling with an economy in collapse.

The New York Times

The years surrounding 1915 were marked by the turmoil of an empire in collapse.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

It is no coincidence that all the simulations based on the Meadows world model invariably end in collapse.

The New York Times

LA FOLLETTE IN COLLAPSE.; Senator Makes Seven Speeches in Illinois, Though Ill.

The New York Times

In "Collapse," Diamond quite convincingly defends himself against the charge of environmental determinism.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts such as economies or political systems, ensure the context clearly supports the severity implied by the phrase "in collapse". It's a strong term and should be used when conditions are critically failing.

Common error

Avoid using "in collapse" to describe situations that are merely struggling or facing difficulties. This phrase suggests a complete or near-complete breakdown, not just a temporary setback.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in collapse" functions as a prepositional phrase often used as a predicate adjective to describe the state of a noun. Ludwig AI indicates its correct grammatical usage, as exemplified in sentences describing economies, structures, or systems failing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in collapse" is a widely used prepositional phrase that describes a state of complete or near-complete failure. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in contexts such as describing failing economies, structures, or systems. It is most commonly found in News & Media, Science, and Academic sources. While versatile, it is best reserved for situations where the subject has experienced a significant breakdown, not merely a temporary setback. Alternatives include phrases like "in decline", "in ruins", or "falling apart", each providing a slightly different shade of meaning. When using the term, make sure the context aligns with the strong connotation of "complete failure" that the phrase conveys.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in failure

Directly indicates a lack of success or a breakdown of functionality.

in disarray

Focuses more on the lack of order and organization rather than complete failure.

falling apart

Describes the process of something breaking down or failing.

in decline

Suggests a gradual deterioration rather than a sudden breakdown.

on the verge of collapse

Indicates impending failure, rather than a state that is happening now.

in ruins

Emphasizes the state of destruction and devastation.

in disintegration

Highlights the process of falling apart into smaller pieces.

giving way

Implies something is succumbing to pressure or strain.

crumbling

Suggests a slow deterioration, often of something that was once strong.

in decay

Emphasizes the gradual deterioration of something organic or structured.

FAQs

How do I use "in collapse" in a sentence?

Use "in collapse" to describe something experiencing a sudden and complete failure. For example, "The bridge was "in collapse" after the earthquake" or "The negotiations were "in collapse" due to irreconcilable differences".

What are some alternatives to "in collapse"?

Depending on the specific context, you could use alternatives like "in decline", "in ruins", or "falling apart". Each of these offers a slightly different nuance of meaning.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "in collapse"?

It is appropriate when something has reached a state of near or total failure. It is best used for situations where there is a significant and often irreversible breakdown of a system, structure, or process.

Is "in collapse" a formal or informal expression?

"In collapse" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, as it is widely used across various types of writing and speech. However, ensure that its use is appropriate for the specific tone and audience. For example, you can use the phrase in News & Media, Science or Academia.