What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
downturn
Example
The company experienced a downturn in sales due to the pandemic. [downturn: noun]
Example
The economy is currently experiencing a downturn, but experts predict it will recover soon. [downturn: noun]
recession
Example
The country is currently in a recession due to the global financial crisis. [recession: noun]
Example
The government implemented policies to prevent a recession during the pandemic. [recession: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Recession is a more common term than downturn in everyday language, as it is a more severe and widespread decline in economic activity. Downturn is a less common term and is often used in the context of specific industries or businesses.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between downturn and recession?
Both downturn and recession are formal terms used in the context of macroeconomics and finance. However, recession is a more serious and severe term, and is therefore more commonly used in formal settings.
