ENGLISH
REFERENCE

declining

v. · n. · adj.
US //dɪˈkɫaɪnɪŋ// UK //dɪklˈaɪnɪŋ// de·clin·ing
  1. 1 becoming less (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    becoming smaller, fewer, or less successful over time.

    gradually decreasing in number, quality, or importance. Often used in continuous tenses to describe a current trend.

    Example

    The number of people living in the village has been declining for years.

    Example

    The manufacturing sector has been declining steadily since the late nineties, leading to significant economic shifts in the northern provinces.
  2. 2 saying no (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    politely refusing an offer, invitation, or request.

    politely refusing to accept or do something. This sense is more formal than 'refusing' or 'saying no'.

    Example

    She is declining the job offer because she wants to stay in her current city.

    Example

    By declining the invitation to the gala, the ambassador sent a subtle but clear message of disapproval regarding the new policy.
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  1. 3 a downward trend (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the process of becoming weaker or less important.

    the process of gradual deterioration or a downward trend in strength, health, or value.

    Example

    The declining of his health was a worry for the whole family.

    Example

    The rapid declining of the currency's value forced the central bank to intervene with emergency measures.
  2. 4 getting smaller or weaker (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    used to describe something that is currently losing value or power.

    describing a state of gradual reduction or deterioration; typically placed before a noun.

    Example

    The company is struggling to survive in a declining market.

    Example

    The declining birth rate has prompted the government to reconsider its long-term social security and pension strategies.

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