retrogression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "retrogression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process of returning to a previous state or condition, often implying a decline or deterioration. Example: "The retrogression of the ecosystem was evident after the industrial activities began to take their toll."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

It is common, however, to find at least some signs of retrogression in most metamorphic rocks.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Two factors mitigate against complete retrogression of metamorphic rocks, however, during their return to Earth's surface.

Encyclopedia Britannica

After Ptolemy's day there even appears to have been a retrogression, as exemplified by the Roman trend away from the mathematical approach to mapping.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Writing as a mid-18th-century "philosopher," Gibbon saw the process as retrogression, and his judgment remains of perpetual interest.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Right now, political expediency seems to be pointing back down the track of moral retrogression.

Independent

This retrogression is probably the result of their adaptation chiefly to an aquatic mode of life, in which less support is required by the girdles.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But there is the further question of whether the changes brought about are to be regarded as ones of progress or retrogression.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And our discovery of what technology is getting at allows us to predict the next step of its evolutionary retrogression, the Devonian or fish state.

The New Yorker

When the DeLay plan was submitted to the Justice Department for approval, career officials in the Voting Section produced an internal legal opinion of seventy-three pages, with seventeen hundred and fifty pages of supporting documents, arguing that the plan should be rejected as a retrogression of minority rights.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

In the 3rd century bc and perhaps somewhat earlier, Babylonian diviners began for the purpose of predicting the course of an individual's life to utilize some planetary omens: positions relative to the horizon, latitudes, retrogressions, and other positions at the moment of birth or of computed conception.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Bacon had no explanation for the planetary retrogressions and saw the universe as a finite and geocentric plenum, in which the earth consists of the two forms of matter (tangible and pneumatic).

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "retrogression" to describe a process where something returns to a less developed or desirable state. For example, in discussions of political or social issues, "retrogression" can highlight a reversal of progress.

Common error

Avoid using "retrogression" interchangeably with "regression" without considering the specific context. While similar, "retrogression" often implies a more significant or undesirable decline, whereas "regression" can simply mean a return to a previous state without necessarily carrying a negative connotation.

Linguistic Context

The word "retrogression" functions primarily as a noun, denoting the process or state of returning to a former, usually worse, condition. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use across various contexts to describe a decline or reversal. As Ludwig AI states, the word is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Encyclopedias

22%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

13%

Reference

9%

Social Media

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "retrogression" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun that describes a return to a former, often less desirable, state. As confirmed by Ludwig, the term is widely accepted. It is commonly found in news, encyclopedic, and scientific contexts, indicating its relevance in formal discourse. While similar to "regression", "retrogression" often carries a stronger negative connotation. When using "retrogression", it is crucial to consider its implications of decline and choose it judiciously. Alternatives like "decline", "regression", and "reversion" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context and desired nuance. Understanding these subtleties ensures accurate and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regression

Indicates a return to a former or less developed state, which can be temporary or permanent.

decline

Focuses on the gradual loss of quality, power, or vigor, often implying a negative change but not necessarily a return to a prior state.

backsliding

Specifically refers to a return to previous bad habits or immoral behavior, often in a religious context.

reversion

Suggests a return to a previous condition, practice, or belief, often in a legal or technical context.

degeneration

Highlights the process of deteriorating or losing functional activity, often in a biological or moral sense.

relapse

Specifically refers to a return to a previous illness or bad habit after a period of improvement.

slide

Indicates a gradual and often unintentional decline, suggesting a lack of control.

setback

Emphasizes a temporary delay or reversal in progress, rather than a complete return to a prior state.

downward spiral

Implies a continuous and accelerating decline, often with severe consequences.

fall from grace

Refers to a decline in status or reputation, often due to moral or ethical failings.

FAQs

How is "retrogression" typically used in a sentence?

The word "retrogression" is used to describe a decline or return to a previous state, often implying a negative change. For example: "The economic policies led to a "retrogression" in living standards."

What are some alternatives to using the word "retrogression"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "decline", "regression", "reversion", or "backsliding" to convey a similar meaning.

Is there a difference between "retrogression" and "regression"?

While both words indicate a return to a previous state, "retrogression" often carries a stronger connotation of decline or deterioration, whereas "regression" may simply imply a return without necessarily being negative. Consider the context to choose the more appropriate term.

In what contexts is the term "retrogression" most commonly used?

"Retrogression" is frequently used in political, social, and economic discussions to describe a reversal of progress or a decline in conditions. It can also be used in scientific contexts to describe a return to a less complex state. You can check Ludwig's examples to see "retrogression" in action.