starting to recede

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "starting to recede" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is gradually moving back or diminishing, such as a tide, hairline, or a feeling. Example: "As the storm passed, the floodwaters were starting to recede, revealing the damage left behind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Beer garden starting to recede!

Independent

Which is exactly when residents say they first saw waters starting to recede.

The Guardian

In Ohio, floodwater closed two Interstate highways before starting to recede Friday.

The New York Times

The financial crisis may now be starting to recede, but a global warming crisis would be immeasurably more destructive.

The New York Times

Trading in currency and stock markets seems to suggest that some of the worst fears over the summer are starting to recede.

The New York Times

If it is too early to talk about titles, the high-water mark of World Cup disappointment is starting to recede.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

The trade deficit starts to recede.

The New York Times

Villagers say the water has finally started to recede.

The New York Times

As he does so, the pain starts to recede.

The Guardian - Music

After three days of heavy rainfall, floodwater have started to recede in parts of the city.

Independent

They got five miles past the town of Golovin before visibility started to recede.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "starting to recede" to describe situations where a previously high level of something is gradually decreasing, such as floodwaters, economic fears, or receding hairlines.

Common error

Avoid using "starting to recede" to describe sudden or immediate decreases. This phrase is best suited for scenarios involving a gradual reduction over time.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "starting to recede" functions as a verb phrase indicating the commencement of a gradual decrease or withdrawal. It is often used to describe tangible phenomena like water levels or intangible concepts like fears or economic downturns, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Travel

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "starting to recede" is a grammatically sound and commonly used verb phrase that describes the beginning of a gradual decrease or withdrawal. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across various contexts. Its neutral to formal register makes it appropriate for news reporting, business communications, and descriptive narratives. While versatile, it's best applied to situations involving gradual change rather than sudden drops. Remember to use it when you want to emphasize that a decline is just beginning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

beginning to diminish

Focuses on the initial stage of reduction or weakening.

commencing to abate

Highlights the formal and gradual lessening of intensity.

starting to ebb

Emphasizes the gradual decline, similar to the outgoing tide.

beginning to wane

Indicates a decrease in power, intensity, or influence.

commencing to subside

Implies a gradual sinking or settling, often used for floods or storms.

beginning to lessen

Highlights the gradual reduction in amount, degree, or intensity.

starting to decrease

Focuses on the numerical reduction of something.

commencing to alleviate

Suggests a gradual relief or easing of pain or distress.

starting to alleviate

Suggests a gradual easing of a negative situation.

beginning to alleviate

Suggests an initial moment when something negative gradually begins to ease

FAQs

How can I use "starting to recede" in a sentence?

You can use "starting to recede" to describe something that is gradually moving back or diminishing. For example, "As the storm passed, the floodwaters were "starting to recede", revealing the damage left behind."

What can I say instead of "starting to recede"?

You can use alternatives like "beginning to diminish", "starting to ebb", or "commencing to subside" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "starting to recede" or "has started to recede"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "has started to recede" implies that the process of receding has already begun, while ""starting to recede"" suggests the process is currently in its initial phase.

What's the difference between "starting to recede" and "receding"?

"Starting to recede" emphasizes the initiation of the receding process, whereas "receding" simply describes the state of moving back or diminishing, without necessarily focusing on the beginning.