petering out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "petering out" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is gradually diminishing or coming to an end, often in terms of energy, enthusiasm, or intensity. Example: "The party started off lively, but by midnight, the excitement was petering out."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Petering out isn't part of the business plan.

The New York Times - Food

44 min: This half is petering out a little.

The Guardian - Sport

The action is petering out toward a draw.

The Guardian - Sport

This great project was in danger of petering out as an also-ran.

Independent

Her research showed that wells were petering out faster than expected.

The New York Times

Though composed with care, "being Here... ...... keeps petering out or hitting a wall.

The New York Times - Arts

But rather than petering out, the virus seems to be ramping up.

The Economist

Soon after, Tim's work at a glass company began petering out, too.

The New York Times - Magazine

America's recovery is petering out, the UK economy is flatlining and euroland's crisis rolls on.

The Guardian - Business

While the rain is petering out, it won't say goodbye for good until the afternoon.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

That suggested a continuance of low-level combat rather than the petering-out of resistance.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "petering out" to describe a gradual decline in energy, enthusiasm, or intensity, rather than a sudden stop. It's particularly effective when discussing trends, projects, or relationships that are losing momentum.

Common error

While acceptable in many contexts, "petering out" can sound informal in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for alternatives like "diminishing" or "tapering off" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "petering out" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a present participle, used to describe the process of something gradually diminishing or coming to an end. As Ludwig AI indicates, this is a common and correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "petering out" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the gradual decline or termination of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in a wide array of contexts. While it sees frequent use in news and media, it can also be found in science and business contexts. Although its usage is quite common, consider opting for more formal alternatives like "diminishing" or "tapering off" when writing in highly formal or academic settings. Alternatives include "fizzling out", "dying down" and "tapering off". Remember to use "petering out" when you want to emphasize a gradual loss of momentum or intensity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fizzling out

Implies a rapid decline, often associated with a loss of excitement or energy. The emphasis is on a quick and somewhat noisy end.

dying down

Suggests a gradual decrease in activity or intensity, often used for emotions or events.

tapering off

Indicates a gradual reduction, especially in quantity or size, often used in a more formal or technical context.

winding down

Suggests a controlled and gradual decrease in activity, often used for processes or events that are coming to a planned end.

fading away

Implies a gradual disappearance or loss of visibility or audibility, often used in a poetic or descriptive context.

ebbing away

Evokes a sense of gradual decline, similar to the receding tide; often used for abstract concepts like hope or strength.

coming to an end

A more general phrase indicating the conclusion of something, without necessarily emphasizing a decline in intensity.

diminishing

Focuses on the reduction in size, importance, or intensity of something. A more straightforward and less figurative alternative.

subsiding

Suggests a calming or settling down after a period of activity or turbulence, particularly for storms or strong emotions.

petering to nothing

Emphasizes the complete and utter end of something. Stronger connotation of ineffectiveness or failure.

FAQs

How can I use "petering out" in a sentence?

You can use "petering out" to describe something gradually diminishing or coming to an end, such as "The initial enthusiasm for the project is now "petering out"".

What are some alternatives to "petering out"?

Alternatives include "fizzling out", "dying down", or "tapering off", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "petering out" appropriate for formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "petering out" might be considered informal in certain formal contexts. More formal alternatives like "diminishing" or "subsiding" may be more suitable.

What's the difference between "petering out" and "fading away"?

"Petering out" implies a gradual loss of energy or momentum, while "fading away" suggests a more gradual disappearance or loss of visibility or audibility.