# graceful degradation

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/graceful-degradation
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

The ability of a system to maintain at least some of its functionality when portions are not working, or when certain features are not available.

## Examples

- The website uses graceful degradation to stay online during server errors.
- Our software is designed for graceful degradation, so users can still read files even if the editing tools fail.
- By prioritizing graceful degradation, the engineers ensured that the navigation system remained partially functional even after the primary satellite link suffered a critical failure.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.