Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
state of stagnation
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "state of stagnation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where there is no progress or development occurring. Example: "The economy has been in a state of stagnation for several years, with little to no growth in various sectors."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Encyclopedias
Wiki
Alternative expressions(20)
lack of progress
economic downturn
lack of willingness
lack of motivation
state of uncertainty
state of syndrome
state of play
state of flux
state of adolescence
state of grace
state of fear
state of confusion
lack of dynamism
absence of drive
lack of inertia
absence of action
want of impetus
absence of momentum
a lack of dynamism
a period of inactivity
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
16 human-written examples
Economics- The article notes that Germany's economy is "in a prolonged state of stagnation".
News & Media
In the nineteen-seventies, with the Soviet regime in a state of stagnation, defections from the U.S.S.R. became frequent news.
News & Media
But, with Congress in a state of stagnation so severe that it resembles locked-in syndrome, Iannucci's curdled comedy may possess its own tonic force.
News & Media
"The general market for literary wares is in a state of stagnation," he reported, during one of the worst years of the depression.
News & Media
Kádár's government slowed and eventually stopped the pace of reform in the mid-1970s, and by the 1980s Hungary's economy had entered a state of stagnation.
Encyclopedias
Twelve hours at Roppongi Hills was a reminder that while the headlines say the Japanese economy is in a state of stagnation, the Japanese are always creating.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
44 human-written examples
Supposedly, Mr. Spitzer would lead the state out of stagnation.
News & Media
A state of comforting stagnation ….
News & Media
UK factories entered 2016 in a "state of near stagnation" following a decline in output growth and new orders during December.
News & Media
Martin Beck, the senior economic adviser to the Ernst & Young Item Club, said: "Manufacturing activity appears to have ended 2015 in a state of near stagnation.
News & Media
Rob Dobson, a senior economist at Markit, described the UK's manufacturing sector as in a state of "near stagnation" after the ongoing difficulties faced by exporters were mirrored in the domestic market.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "state of stagnation", ensure the context clearly indicates what is stagnating (e.g., economy, industry, progress). Providing specific details adds clarity and impact.
Common error
Avoid using "state of stagnation" in contexts where a more nuanced or specific term would be more appropriate. Overusing this phrase can make your writing sound melodramatic or imprecise.
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "state of stagnation" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes a condition or situation characterized by a lack of progress or development. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.
Frequent in
News & Media
60%
Wiki
20%
Encyclopedias
13%
Less common in
Science
3%
Formal & Business
2%
Reference
2%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "state of stagnation" is a noun phrase used to describe a lack of progress or development, often in economic, political, or social contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and media. While appropriate for formal writing, it should be used with precision to avoid sounding overly dramatic. Alternatives include "period of inactivity" or "lack of progress". The phrase appears frequently in sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, indicating its relevance in contemporary discourse. Ensure the context clearly identifies what is stagnating for maximum clarity.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
period of inactivity
Focuses on the lack of activity rather than the lack of progress.
condition of standstill
Emphasizes the complete absence of movement or advancement.
lack of progress
Directly states the absence of forward movement.
economic downturn
Specifically refers to a decline in economic activity.
time of dormancy
Suggests a temporary period of inactivity, often in a natural or cyclical context.
era of inertia
Highlights the resistance to change or action.
phase of sluggishness
Indicates a slow or lethargic pace of development.
plateaued situation
Implies that a previously growing trend has leveled off.
static environment
Emphasizes the unchanging nature of the surroundings.
motionless phase
Highlights the lack of physical or metaphorical movement.
FAQs
How can I use "state of stagnation" in a sentence?
You can use "state of stagnation" to describe a period where there is no growth or progress. For example: "The country's economy has been in a "state of stagnation" for the past decade."
What are some alternatives to "state of stagnation"?
Alternatives include "period of inactivity", "lack of progress", or "economic downturn", depending on the specific context.
What's the difference between "state of stagnation" and "state of recession"?
"State of stagnation" implies a prolonged period of little to no growth, whereas "state of recession" indicates a significant decline in economic activity. Recession is generally more severe and shorter-term than stagnation.
Is it appropriate to use "state of stagnation" in formal writing?
Yes, "state of stagnation" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing economic or political situations. However, consider using more specific terms if they better reflect the nuances of the situation.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested