decline
/dɪˈklaɪn/(noun)
AWL Sublist 5CEFR B2IELTS Band 7.0 - 9.0
Academic Definition
A gradual and continuous loss of strength, numbers, quality, or value; to politely refuse an offer.
Key Academic Collocations
Click to copyWord Family & Derivatives
declinedeclineddecliningdeclines
Lexical Alternatives (Synonyms)
downturndecreasedropslumpdiminution
Academic Sample Sentences in Context
"The line graph indicates a steady decline in manufacturing employment, falling from 34% in 1980 to barely 12% in 2020."
"Agricultural yields in arid regions experienced a steep decline following three consecutive years of unprecedented drought."
"Many developing states have seen an encouraging decline in infant mortality rates due to subsidized childhood immunizations."
IELTS Examiner Scoring Strategy (Lexical Resource)
Top-priority Task 1 noun/verb: 'experienced a sharp decline', 'declined steadily', 'a noticeable decline in sales'.