precipitous drop

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "precipitous drop" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sudden and steep decrease in something, such as prices, temperatures, or performance levels. Example: "The stock market experienced a precipitous drop after the announcement of the new regulations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

What lies behind this precipitous drop is money.

The Guardian - Opinion

"And it has been a very precipitous drop from there".

The New York Times

As sweetly captivating as they can be, fortified wines have seen a precipitous drop in demand.

The New York Times - Food

Concurrently, there was a precipitous drop in sheep farming's proportion of total agricultural revenues.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Over the past 30 years there has been a precipitous drop in Quebec's birth rate.

The New Yorker

Then, in 2000, there was a precipitous drop in the company's stock.

The New Yorker

It marked a precipitous drop from the 10,300 metric tons imported in 2011.

The New York Times

These test results are not surprising; the state Education Department had predicted a precipitous drop.

The New York Times

Such a precipitous drop could eventually lead to inbreeding and weak horses, Ms. Beullens warned.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

After the top five Pacers, there is a precipitous drop-off in talent.

The New York Times - Sports

After that there was a predictably precipitous drop-off, Weedman tells me, of regular visitors.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a significant and sudden decrease, use "precipitous drop" to add emphasis and a sense of urgency to your writing. This phrase is particularly effective in business, finance, and scientific contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "precipitous drop" when describing a slow or gradual decrease. This phrase implies a sudden and rapid decline, not a steady or incremental one. Use terms like "gradual decline" or "steady decrease" for the latter.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "precipitous drop" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific event or state of rapid decline, as exemplified by Ludwig in various contexts such as economic downturns or decreases in statistical data.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "precipitous drop" is a noun phrase denoting a sudden and significant decline, often used in formal and professional contexts to convey urgency and emphasize the severity of a decrease. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. While alternatives like "sharp decline" and "steep fall" exist, "precipitous drop" adds a distinct sense of drama. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a rapid and substantial decline, avoiding its misapplication to gradual changes. The phrase is very common, appearing frequently in news media, scientific publications, and business reports.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sharp decline

Emphasizes the steepness of the decrease, similar to precipitous, but less dramatic.

steep fall

Focuses on the downward direction and abruptness of the decrease.

sudden decline

Highlights the unexpected nature of the decrease.

rapid decrease

Underscores the speed at which the decline occurs.

abrupt downturn

Specifically refers to a sudden negative shift, often in economic contexts.

drastic reduction

Stresses the magnitude of the decrease.

marked decrease

Indicates a noticeable and significant decline.

significant decline

Emphasizes the importance or impact of the decrease.

substantial fall

Focuses on the considerable amount of the decrease.

considerable decrease

Highlights the extent or size of the decline.

FAQs

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

You can use "precipitous drop" to describe a sudden and significant decrease in something. For instance, "The company experienced a "precipitous drop" in sales after the product recall".

What are some alternatives to "precipitous drop"?

Alternatives include "sharp decline", "steep fall", or "sudden decline". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

What does "precipitous" mean in the context of "precipitous drop"?

In this context, "precipitous" means sudden and dramatic, like a steep cliff. It emphasizes the abrupt and significant nature of the decline.

Is it appropriate to use "precipitous drop" in informal writing?

While "precipitous drop" is generally understood, it's more common in formal or professional writing due to its somewhat elevated tone. In informal contexts, simpler phrases like "sharp decline" or "steep fall" might be more suitable.