devolve

[dɪˈvɒlv]

devolve Definition

  • 1transfer or delegate (power) to a lower level, especially from central government to local or regional administration
  • 2degenerate or deteriorate gradually
  • 3pass into (a different state, especially a worse one); degenerate

Using devolve: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "devolve" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The government devolved power to the regions.

  • Example

    The situation devolved into chaos.

  • Example

    The peaceful protest devolved into violence.

  • Example

    The company's financial situation has devolved over the years.

devolve Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with devolve

  • to degenerate or deteriorate into something else

    Example

    The argument devolved into name-calling and insults.

  • devolve on/upon

    to be transferred or delegated to someone or something else

    Example

    Responsibility for the project will devolve on the new team leader.

  • to pass from one state to another, especially a worse one

    Example

    The company's financial problems devolved from poor management decisions.

Origins of devolve

from Latin 'devolvere', meaning 'roll down'

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Summary: devolve in Brief

The verb 'devolve' [dɪˈvɒlv] can mean to transfer or delegate power from a higher to a lower level, as in 'The government devolved power to the regions,' or to degenerate or deteriorate gradually, as in 'The situation devolved into chaos.' It can also mean to pass into a different, often worse state, as in 'The company's financial situation has devolved over the years.' 'Devolve' is often used in phrases like 'devolve into,' 'devolve on/upon,' and 'devolve from.'