English Reference
Noun

downturn

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈdaʊnˌtɝn/ UK /dˈaʊntɜːn/ down·turn UK spelling downturns

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.


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').

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.

Toronto Sun· 4 Sept 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated