# deteriorate

/dɪˈtɪɹiɝˌeɪt/ (US) · /dɪtˈiəɹiəɹˌeɪt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/deteriorate
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 2. to make something worse

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal

to cause something to become lower in quality or value.

For teachers: to make something worse or to impair the quality of something. This transitive use is less common than the intransitive form.

- Years of neglect had deteriorated the old building until it was unsafe.
- Exposure to harsh chemicals had significantly deteriorated the structural integrity of the storage containers over the last decade.

Usage: Takes a direct object; frequently used in technical or formal reports regarding materials.

## Examples

- The old house began to deteriorate after years of neglect.
- The patient's condition started to deteriorate rapidly overnight, requiring immediate medical intervention.
- Despite several attempts at diplomatic mediation, relations between the two neighboring countries continued to deteriorate until all formal communication ceased.

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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.