DETERIORATION Synonyms: 110 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the noun 'deterioration' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of deterioration are decadence , decline , and degeneration . While all these words mean "the falling from a higher to a lower level in quality, character, or vitality," deterioration implies generally the impairment of value or usefulness. // the deterioration of the house through neglect

Q: When can 'decadence' be used instead of 'deterioration'?

In some situations, the words decadence and deterioration are roughly equivalent. However, decadence presupposes a reaching and passing the peak of development and implies a turn downward with a consequent loss in vitality or energy. // cited love of luxury as a sign of cultural decadence

Q: How do 'decline' and 'decadence' relate to one another, in the sense of 'deterioration'?

Decline differs from decadence in suggesting a more markedly downward direction and greater momentum as well as more obvious evidence of deterioration. // the meteoric decline of his career after the scandal

Q: When could 'degeneration' be used to replace 'deterioration'?

The words degeneration and deterioration are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, degeneration stresses physical, intellectual, or especially moral retrogression. // the degeneration of their youthful idealism into cynicism

deterioration

noun

di-ˌtir-ē-ə-ˈrā-shən

Definition of deterioration next

as in weakening

a gradual sinking and wasting away of mind or body muscle deterioration resulting from prolonged disuse

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in degradation

a change to a lower state or level a deterioration in the quality of food at that once-thriving restaurant

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How does the noun deterioration differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of deterioration are decadence, decline, and degeneration. While all these words mean "the falling from a higher to a lower level in quality, character, or vitality," deterioration implies generally the impairment of value or usefulness.

the deterioration of the house through neglect

When can decadence be used instead of deterioration?

In some situations, the words decadence and deterioration are roughly equivalent. However, decadence presupposes a reaching and passing the peak of development and implies a turn downward with a consequent loss in vitality or energy.

cited love of luxury as a sign of cultural decadence

How do decline and decadence relate to one another, in the sense of deterioration?

Decline differs from decadence in suggesting a more markedly downward direction and greater momentum as well as more obvious evidence of deterioration.

the meteoric decline of his career after the scandal

When could degeneration be used to replace deterioration?

The words degeneration and deterioration are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, degeneration stresses physical, intellectual, or especially moral retrogression.

the degeneration of their youthful idealism into cynicism

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of deterioration Between the lines: Put it all together, and that is a flashing green light for the Fed to shift its focus and be on high alert for any further deterioration in spending, incomes and the job market. —

Neil Irwin, Axios, 27 Sep. 2024 The Chinese ruling party's past anxieties over regime security played a significant role in the rapid deterioration of the bilateral relationship. —

Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024 The deterioration in Volkswagen’s prospects point to worsening conditions in the private sector in Germany. —

Hanna Ziady, CNN, 30 Oct. 2024 As hospital closures continue and access to care dwindles, the health outcomes for rural Americans, particularly in terms of heart disease, are at risk of further deterioration. —

Meeshanthini Dogan, Forbes, 30 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for deterioration

Recent Examples of Synonyms for deterioration

Noun

Risk mitigation: Investors recognize that climate change and environmental degradation pose long-term risks to the financial system and specific sectors.

Christer Holloman, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
In addition, there has been some recent degradation of rangeland and pastures, as well as a lack of soil moisture for the establishment of fall-sown crops, including winter wheat, according to the USDA.

Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 24 Oct. 2024