nearing collapse

USAGE SUMMARY

"nearing collapse" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used when describing objects, structures, or systems that are close to breaking down or failing. Example: The company's financial stability is nearing collapse due to mismanagement and declining profits.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Up close, those American flags are nearing collapse.

The Guardian - Arts

The news in Buenos Aires could hardly be worse, with the nation's finances nearing collapse and unemployment soaring.

The New York Times

Today's ruling overturned order No. 10 of the Soviet defense ministry, issued as the Communist system was nearing collapse.

The New York Times

Civilians are not being protected as envisioned, Colonel Qaddafi isn't folding, and as tribes threaten to enter the fray, Libya may be nearing collapse.

The New York Times

Stocks fell sharply after the retail sales report was released early in the day, and a large investment fund said it was nearing collapse.

The New York Times

At the same time, the Soviet Union, whose leaders had long had a mutually profitable partnership with De Beers, was nearing collapse.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

The grid neared collapse.

The New York Times - Magazine

Fortis neared collapse at the end of September.

The New York Times

BNP Paribas had offered 14.5 billion euros, or $21 billion, for Fortis after the Belgian company neared collapse.

The New York Times

The currency, the rial, is near collapse.

The Economist

The American International Group was near collapse.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "nearing collapse" to describe situations where a system, structure, or entity is progressively deteriorating and close to failing. Ensure that the context clearly indicates what is at risk of collapsing.

Common error

Avoid using "nearing collapse" hyperbolically in situations that are merely challenging but not genuinely on the verge of failure. Overuse can diminish the phrase's impact when describing truly critical situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "nearing collapse" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically modifying a noun to indicate that the noun is in a state of progressive decline and is close to failing or breaking down. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "nearing collapse" is a descriptive phrase used to indicate that something is progressively deteriorating and close to failing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used, especially in news and media contexts. When writing, use it to describe situations where failure is imminent, but avoid overuse in sensational contexts. Alternatives like ""on the verge of collapse"" or ""close to disintegration"" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. Remember to maintain a neutral tone to effectively convey the severity of the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the verge of collapse

This alternative emphasizes the imminence of the collapse.

at the point of failure

This alternative highlights the specific moment just before failure.

close to disintegration

This alternative emphasizes the breaking apart aspect of a system.

on the brink of ruin

This alternative emphasizes the disastrous consequences of the collapse.

approaching failure

This alternative is more general, referring to any kind of failure.

close to falling apart

This alternative underscores the fragmentation aspect of the collapse.

about to crumble

This alternative suggests a more sudden and dramatic collapse.

headed for a breakdown

This alternative emphasizes the process leading to a breakdown.

degenerating rapidly

This alternative highlights quick deterioration preceding the collapse.

on its last legs

This alternative is more informal, suggesting a state of extreme weakness.

FAQs

How can I use "nearing collapse" in a sentence?

You can use "nearing collapse" to describe systems or structures that are progressively deteriorating and close to failing. For example, "The bridge is nearing collapse due to years of neglect" or "The peace talks are nearing collapse because of increasing violence".

What are some alternatives to "nearing collapse"?

Some alternatives include "on the verge of collapse", "close to disintegration", or "approaching failure". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "nearing collapse" in formal writing?

Yes, "nearing collapse" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in news reports, analytical articles, and professional documents. The phrase is clear, concise, and widely understood.

What's the difference between "near collapse" and "nearing collapse"?

"Near collapse" ("near collapse") suggests a state very close to failure at a specific point in time. "Nearing collapse", on the other hand, implies a process or trend leading towards that state, suggesting ongoing deterioration.