# downgrade

/ˈdaʊnˈɡɹeɪd/ (US) · /dˈaʊŋɡɹeɪd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/downgrade
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a change to a lower or less powerful level. In computing, it means replacing a newer version of software with an older one.

For teachers: a reduction in rank, status, or quality; in a technical context, the substitution of a software or hardware system with an earlier or less advanced version.

## Examples

- The software downgrade fixed the bugs in the new version.
- After experiencing several system crashes, the IT department recommended a temporary downgrade to the previous stable release.
- The credit agency's recent downgrade of the national debt has led to increased borrowing costs and a sharp decline in investor confidence across the region.

## Usage notes

- Often paired with the preposition 'to' when indicating the target version or level.

---

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.