Word
subsidence
Phoneticssub·si·dence, stress on the second syllable
US/səbˈsaɪdəns/
UK/sˈʌbsɪdəns/
Uncountable noun
Definition
n. the slow sinking of the ground or a building into the earth. It often happens because the soil or rock under a structure becomes weak or wet.
n. the gradual sinking or settling of the earth's surface or a structure into the ground. Often caused by the erosion of underlying soil, the collapse of underground cavities, or the drying out of clay.
Examples
“The heavy rain caused subsidence in the garden.”
“Engineers are monitoring the old bridge for signs of subsidence that might compromise its structural integrity.”
“Geological subsidence in the region is primarily driven by the extraction of groundwater, which leaves the underlying sediment layers unsupported and prone to gradual collapse.”
Examples
simple
“The heavy rain caused subsidence in the garden.”
contextual
“Engineers are monitoring the old bridge for signs of subsidence that might compromise its structural integrity.”
complex
“Geological subsidence in the region is primarily driven by the extraction of groundwater, which leaves the underlying sediment layers unsupported and prone to gradual collapse.”
Real-World Examples
“This rapid land loss is caused by rising sea levels from the climate crisis, as well as the subsidence of the state’s coastline.” “The main reason for the difference is land subsidence, the gradual sinking of the ground beneath coastal cities and communities.” Word family
VERB
NOUN
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.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL 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: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/subsidence