things getting worse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "things getting worse" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a situation that is deteriorating or becoming more negative. For example, "Despite our efforts, things are getting worse in the community." Alternative expressions include "situations worsening" and "conditions deteriorating."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

"Are things getting worse?

The New York Times - Science

7.09pm: Things getting worse for Karol Karol.

The Guardian - Film

It's hard to imagine things getting worse in Egypt, but they could.

The New York Times

The pattern of increases, though, fits expectations and those expectations see things getting worse.

The Economist

"It's not that they're oblivious to things getting worse," he said.

The New York Times

The audience gasped but, despite things getting worse, it did not sink into depression.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

There things got worse.

The New York Times

But things got worse.

Independent

Later, things get worse.

The New York Times - Books

Then things got worse.

The New York Times - Sports

Then things get worse.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "things getting worse" it is often appropriate to add a comparative element. E.g. Things are getting worse compared to last year; Things are getting worse despite our efforts; Things are getting worse faster than predicted.

Common error

Avoid using "things getting worse" as a standalone statement without providing specific details or evidence. Always clarify what "things" refers to and how they are worsening to ensure clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "things getting worse" primarily functions as a nominalization, acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes a process of deterioration, as evidenced by Ludwig examples showcasing its use in discussing economic decline and environmental issues. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness and usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "things getting worse" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe deteriorating situations, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, it serves to communicate concern or warning about negative trends. While versatile, it's most effective when used with specific details to avoid vagueness. Related phrases like "the situation is deteriorating" or "conditions are declining" offer nuanced alternatives, and while the phrase is widely considered neutral, avoid overuse without context. This analysis is backed by numerous real-world examples, solidifying its validity in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the situation is deteriorating

Focuses on the gradual worsening of a situation.

conditions are declining

Emphasizes a downward trend in specific conditions.

the outlook is bleak

Highlights a pessimistic perspective on future developments.

matters are escalating negatively

Stresses an increase in negative impact or intensity.

the decline is accelerating

Focuses on the increasing speed of the deterioration.

problems are mounting

Suggests an accumulation of difficulties.

the crisis is deepening

Emphasizes the increasing severity of a critical situation.

the downturn is intensifying

Highlights a strengthening negative economic trend.

the rot is setting in

Implies a pervasive and destructive process is beginning.

the slide is continuing

Focuses on an ongoing and unwanted decline.

FAQs

How can I use "things getting worse" in a sentence?

You can use "things getting worse" to describe a deteriorating situation. For example: "The economy is struggling, and "things getting worse" every day."

What are some alternatives to "things getting worse"?

Alternatives include "the situation is deteriorating", "conditions are declining", or "the outlook is bleak", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "things get worse" instead of "things getting worse"?

Yes, "things get worse" is also grammatically correct. "Things getting worse" implies an ongoing process, while "things get worse" can refer to a more general or future situation.

In what contexts is "things getting worse" most commonly used?

"Things getting worse" is frequently used in "news", "media", and general discussions to describe negative trends in various areas such as the economy, environment, or social issues.