plummet

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "plummet" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a rapid, sharp drop in value or quality. Example: The stock market plummeted after a string of disappointing earnings reports.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Therefore I do everything in my power to prevent the 30,000-foot plummet, which means carrying various life-saving charms, of course, but more importantly, it means that I get my spit on the outside of that aircraft when I board.

The Guardian

The effect of a terrible review, a critical blog, an unflattering link or a rant from a disgruntled ex-employee sitting in one of the top 10 Google spots can be devastating for a business as click-through rates plummet.

The Guardian - Tech

The debris had fallen from a small plateau above, most crossing the path to plummet onto the sea's edge, 40m below.

The Guardian - Travel

He draws an example from this week, which has seen the price of oil plummet further, with warnings of a crisis in the North sea industry.

The Guardian

Russia's economy is cratering as oil prices plummet.

The Guardian - Business

Even government officials admit privately that next year's Programme for International Students PISAA) results will see Wales plummet further down the world's educational rankings.

The Guardian - Opinion

I once heard someone say that it was easier for people like J.K. Rowling to follow their passions because when you hit rock bottom, generally, the only way is up, whereas for other people hovering in moderation, one decision can cause them to succeed, or their life to plummet.

The Guardian

Optimists go skydiving to experience a life-affirming surge of adrenaline, but pessimists steer clear because they know they'll plummet headfirst into a flock of geese, and then their canopy won't open, and then their plane will crash-land and explode right on top of their shattered almost-corpse.

The Guardian - Opinion

And I wondered if, as sales plummet, Barbie actually thrives on this conversation.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The move marked the start of six years of misery for savers who, in that time, have seen the best rate on an easy access savings account plummet from 3.5% to 1.5%, according to data from Moneyfacts.

The Guardian - Money

Many landlords who bought property before the financial crisis are on interest rates tracking the Bank of England base rate and have seen their costs plummet since it dropped to 0.5%.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "plummet" to vividly describe a sudden and significant drop, whether in numerical values, physical positions, or abstract concepts. This word adds a sense of drama and speed to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "plummet" to describe slow or gradual declines. This verb implies a rapid and sharp drop, so using it for a slow decrease will be inaccurate and misleading.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "plummet" is as a verb, describing a rapid or sudden fall. As Ludwig AI indicates, it signifies a swift and direct descent, applicable both literally (falling from a height) and figuratively (a sharp drop in value or quality).

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "plummet" is a versatile verb used to describe a swift and dramatic fall, as validated by Ludwig AI. Its grammatical correctness and frequent appearance in authoritative sources, such as The Economist and The Guardian, affirm its reliability. When using "plummet", remember to reserve it for rapid and significant declines, avoiding its application to gradual changes. Related alternatives include "drop sharply" and "fall rapidly". Its widespread usage and neutral register make "plummet" a valuable addition to one's vocabulary, enhancing clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

drop sharply

Emphasizes the suddenness and magnitude of the decrease.

fall rapidly

Focuses on the speed of the descent.

decline steeply

Highlights the severity of the downward trend.

take a nosedive

Uses a more figurative expression to describe a sudden fall.

descend quickly

Focuses on the speed and direction of the fall.

decrease dramatically

Emphasizes the significant extent of the reduction.

sink like a stone

A more emphatic idiom, highlighting the speed and finality of the fall.

go into freefall

Draws a parallel with physics, highlighting the uncontrolled nature of the fall.

tumble downwards

Implies a less controlled and more chaotic descent.

experience a steep downturn

Describes a decrease within an economic context.

FAQs

How can I use "plummet" in a sentence?

Use "plummet" to describe a rapid and significant fall or decrease. For example: "The stock prices "plummet" after the announcement", or "The skydiver "plummeted" towards the earth."

What are some synonyms for "plummet"?

Synonyms for "plummet" include "drop sharply", "fall rapidly", and "decline steeply". These alternatives also describe a quick and significant decrease.

Is it correct to say 'plummet down'?

While it isn't grammatically incorrect, 'plummet down' can be redundant because "plummet" already implies a downward motion. It's generally better to simply use "plummet".

What is the difference between "plummet" and "decline"?

"Plummet" suggests a sudden, rapid, and often dramatic fall. "Decline", on the other hand, indicates a more gradual decrease. Use "plummet" when you want to emphasize the speed and severity of the drop, while use "decline" when describing any type of downturn.