What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deteriorating
Example
The old building is deteriorating due to neglect and lack of maintenance. [deteriorating: present participle]
Example
The company's financial situation is deteriorating rapidly, and they may have to declare bankruptcy soon. [deteriorating: gerund]
declining
Example
The declining birth rate is a concern for many countries facing an aging population. [declining: present participle]
Example
The company's declining sales figures are a cause for alarm among shareholders. [declining: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Declining is more commonly used than deteriorating in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts. Deteriorating is less common and is often used in more formal or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between deteriorating and declining?
Deteriorating is typically associated with a more formal or technical tone, while declining is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
