English Reference

Word

falling

Phoneticsfall·ing, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈfɑɫɪŋ/

UK/fˈɔːlɪŋ/

Definitions

01moving downwards

A1 · Beginner

v. moving down towards the ground because of gravity.

v. the state of descending from a higher to a lower level under the influence of gravity.

“Watch out for falling rocks while you are hiking on the mountain.”

“The safety net was designed to catch any falling debris during the construction of the high-rise apartment complex.”

Antonyms

02decreasing

B1 · Intermediate

v. becoming less in amount, price, or strength.

v. experiencing a reduction in value, quantity, or intensity.

“The falling prices of electronics mean more people can afford a new phone.”

“Economists expressed concern over falling consumer confidence, which typically precedes a slowdown in retail spending.”

03the act of dropping

B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun

n. the event of dropping down or losing your balance.

n. the action or instance of losing one's balance or collapsing from a standing position.

“The old man was afraid of falling on the icy sidewalk.”

“Medical professionals emphasize that for elderly patients, the fear of falling can be as restrictive as a physical injury itself.”

Synonyms

Idioms

This entry

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.A1 MoversIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.2.0–3.0TOEFL 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: 1.0–1.50–23TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.120–224
Frequency
Common
Level
A1 · Beginner
Updated

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