Word
downturn
Phoneticsdown·turn, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈdaʊnˌtɝn/
UK/dˈaʊntɜːn/
Countable noun Economics
Definition
n. a period when a business or an economy becomes less successful. It usually means there is less money, fewer jobs, or lower sales than before.
n. a decline in economic, business, or other activity from a previously higher level. Often used to describe cyclical shifts in the market or industry performance.
Examples
“The company struggled during the recent economic downturn.”
“Economists are worried that the current downturn in the housing market might last for several years.”
“While the global downturn initially hit the manufacturing sector hardest, the subsequent reduction in consumer spending eventually rippled through the entire service economy.”
Examples
simple
“The company struggled during the recent economic downturn.”
contextual
“Economists are worried that the current downturn in the housing market might last for several years.”
complex
“While the global downturn initially hit the manufacturing sector hardest, the subsequent reduction in consumer spending eventually rippled through the entire service economy.”
Usage
Commonly paired with 'in' to specify the affected area (e.g., 'a downturn in sales').
Real-World Examples
“Burnout has become common, and the Chinese dream seems to have receded in the face of economic downturn .” “Another finding in the survey is that 80% believe Canada is either already in an economic downturn or likely heading toward one within the next 12 months.” “Although the traditional working environments remain strict in terms of hours and available leave, the economic downturn has opened up new opportunities.” Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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