decline
/dɪˈklaɪn/to gradually decrease in size, amount, or intensity
The number of students in the class declined after the school year started.
The number of students decreased after the school year began.
Often used with 'in' or 'over' to specify the time period.
to politely refuse an offer or invitation
She declined the invitation to the party.
She politely refused the invitation to the party.
Used in formal or polite contexts to reject something.
to become weaker or less healthy
His health declined rapidly after the diagnosis.
His health worsened quickly after the diagnosis.
Commonly used in medical contexts to describe deterioration.
Collocations
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Use
Use 'decline' in formal contexts to politely refuse something. In informal contexts, you might use 'refuse' or 'reject'.
⚡Gold Rule
Preposition Usage
'Decline' is often followed by 'in' or 'over' to specify the time period of the decrease.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English declinen, from Old French decliner, from Latin declinare (to bend, turn aside, decline), from de- (down) + clinare (to bend).
📝Usage Notes
The verb 'decline' can be used both transitively (with an object) and intransitively (without an object). It is often used in formal contexts to politely refuse something.