What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
descending
Example
The hikers were descending the mountain when they saw a beautiful waterfall. [descending: verb]
Example
The temperature is slowly descending as winter approaches. [descending: present participle]
dropping
Example
The ball was dropping fast towards the ground. [dropping: verb]
Example
She was dropping hints about her upcoming birthday party. [dropping: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dropping is more commonly used than descending in everyday language, especially in informal contexts. Descending is more commonly used in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between descending and dropping?
Descending is more formal than dropping, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
