What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
downward
Example
The airplane began its downward descent towards the runway. [downward: adjective]
Example
The stock market experienced a downward trend this quarter. [downward: adverb]
Example
The cat looked downward from the top of the tree. [downward: adverb]
falling
Example
The leaves were falling from the trees in autumn. [falling: verb]
Example
The falling snow made the roads slippery and dangerous. [falling: adjective]
Example
The company's profits have been falling steadily for the past year. [falling: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Falling is more commonly used than downward in everyday language, especially when describing physical movements. Downward is more versatile and can be used in various contexts, including non-physical ones.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between downward and falling?
Both downward and falling are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
