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deterioration
/dɪˌtɪəriˈeɪʃən/
gradual decline or worsening
The building's deterioration was evident from the cracked walls and peeling paint.
The building was visibly falling apart and getting worse over time.
general
The process of becoming progressively worse in quality, condition, or value.
The patient's health showed signs of rapid deterioration after the infection.
The patient's condition worsened quickly due to the infection.
The economic deterioration led to widespread unemployment.
The economy got worse, causing many people to lose their jobs.
Often used in contexts like health, infrastructure, or economic conditions.
Collocations
rapid deteriorationa quick decline in conditionsigns of deteriorationevidence that something is getting worse
Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Use
Use 'deterioration' in formal writing or professional contexts. For casual speech, consider 'worsening' or 'decay'.
Word Origin
From Latin 'deteriorare' (to make worse), from 'de-' (down) + 'terior' (worse).
Usage Notes
Often used in formal or technical contexts to describe a decline in condition or quality.
Word Breakdown
de-
down, away from
prefix-terior
worse
root-ation
the process of
suffixEnglish Dictionary