precipitous decline

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "precipitous decline" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sudden and steep decrease in something, such as numbers, quality, or performance. Example: "The company experienced a precipitous decline in sales after the product recall."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Then came precipitous decline and turmoil.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Bluefin populations are in precipitous decline.

The New York Times

That's when the stock's precipitous decline began.

The New York Times

In fact, gun crime began its precipitous decline under Labour.

The Economist

Immediately, Brazil's currency -- the real -- began a precipitous decline.

The New York Times

But that masks a precipitous decline in native-born Catholics.

The New York Times

Such a precipitous decline had not occurred since the 1930s.

The New York Times

Ten years later, another precipitous decline and the resulting medical bills obliterated her retirement savings.

The New York Times

MUCH has been made of the precipitous decline of America's newspapers.

The Economist

By November, with Apple stock in the midst of a precipitous decline, they were still bullish.

The New York Times

The images here constitute a requiem for an American empire in a state of precipitous decline.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "precipitous decline" to convey a sense of suddenness and severity in a decrease. It's particularly effective when describing declines in quantifiable metrics like sales, populations, or values.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "precipitous decline" can sound overly formal or dramatic in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "sharp drop" or "steep fall" for everyday communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "precipitous decline" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a rapid and significant decrease. Ludwig AI examples illustrate its use in describing drops in sales, populations, and other quantifiable metrics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "precipitous decline" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term to describe a sudden and significant decrease. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's commonly found in news, media, and scientific contexts, conveying a sense of urgency or concern. While suitable for formal writing, simpler alternatives might be preferable in casual settings. Remember to use this phrase to emphasize the swift and severe nature of a downturn, as evidenced by numerous examples of its application across diverse domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Steep drop

Focuses on the suddenness and severity of the decrease, emphasizing a vertical fall.

Rapid decrease

Highlights the speed at which the decline occurs, suitable when emphasizing the quickness of the change.

Sharp downturn

Emphasizes a negative turn or change in a situation, implying a reversal of fortune or condition.

Sudden collapse

Suggests a complete and unexpected failure or loss of something, often with dramatic consequences.

Abrupt fall

Highlights the unexpected nature of the drop, similar to "sudden", but with a more physical connotation.

Drastic reduction

Emphasizes the extent of the decrease, implying a significant and impactful change in quantity or size.

Quick depreciation

Specifically refers to a rapid loss of value, often used in financial or economic contexts.

Radical diminution

Emphasizes a significant and transformative decrease, often implying a change in status or importance.

Headlong plunge

Implies a reckless or uncontrolled fall, suggesting a lack of resistance or mitigation.

Unforeseen decrement

Highlights the unexpected nature of the decrease, often used in technical or scientific contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "precipitous decline" in a sentence?

You can use "precipitous decline" to describe a sudden and significant drop in something. For example, "The company experienced a "precipitous decline" in profits after the scandal".

What are some alternatives to "precipitous decline"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "steep drop", "rapid decrease", or "sharp downturn".

Is it appropriate to use "precipitous decline" in formal writing?

Yes, "precipitous decline" is suitable for formal writing, especially when you want to emphasize the sudden and severe nature of a decrease. It conveys a more dramatic sense than simpler alternatives.

What's the difference between "precipitous decline" and "gradual decline"?

"Precipitous decline" indicates a sudden and rapid decrease, whereas "gradual decline" suggests a slow and steady decrease over time. The choice depends on the actual pattern of the decline you're describing.