What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dilapidating
Example
The old house was dilapidating and needed extensive repairs. [dilapidating: verb]
Example
The dilapidating bridge was closed for safety reasons. [dilapidating: present participle]
deteriorate
Example
The patient's health continued to deteriorate despite treatment. [deteriorate: verb]
Example
The quality of the product deteriorated after a few months of use. [deteriorated: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deteriorate is more commonly used than dilapidating in everyday language. Deteriorate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while dilapidating is less common and refers to a specific type of decline.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between dilapidating and deteriorate?
Both dilapidating and deteriorate can be used in formal or informal contexts, but dilapidating may be perceived as more formal due to its less common usage and specific connotation.
