# downgraded

/ˈdaʊnˈɡɹeɪdəd/ (US) · /dˈaʊŋɡɹeɪdɪd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/downgraded
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

reduced to a lower level, rank, or value. You use this when something is now considered less important or lower quality than it was before.

For teachers: reduced to a lower status, rank, or level of importance. Often used predicatively after a linking verb or as a participial adjective modifying a noun.

## Examples

- The storm was downgraded to a tropical breeze.
- After the poor quarterly results, the bank's credit rating was downgraded by several major financial agencies.
- The once-prestigious hotel now offers a downgraded experience, with fewer amenities and a smaller staff than it maintained during its peak years in the late nineties.

## Usage notes

- Often follows 'was' or 'has been' in passive constructions; can also be used as a participial adjective before a noun.

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