Top 60 Slang For Decline – Meaning & Usage

In a world where trends come and go, staying in the loop with the latest lingo is key. When it comes to describing a decline in style, popularity, or performance, knowing the right slang can make all the difference. Let us guide you through a list of trendy terms that will keep you ahead of the curve and in the know.

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1. Tank

To “tank” means to experience a significant and often sudden decline or failure. It is commonly used to describe a drastic drop in performance, value, or success.

For example, “The company’s stock tanked after the scandal was revealed.”
In a sports context, one might say, “The team tanked in the playoffs, losing every game.”
A person discussing a failed project might comment, “Our marketing campaign completely tanked, and we didn’t see any increase in sales.”

2. Crash

To “crash” refers to a sudden and significant decline, usually in the context of financial markets or computer systems. It implies a rapid and often unexpected drop in value or functionality.

For instance, “The stock market crashed, causing investors to lose millions of dollars.”
In the tech world, one might say, “The website crashed due to high traffic.”
A person discussing a failed relationship might say, “Our marriage crashed and burned after only a year.”

3. Plummet

To “plummet” means to drop or fall rapidly and steeply. It is often used to describe a sudden and significant decline in value, prices, or performance.

For example, “The temperature plummeted overnight, causing a deep freeze.”
In a financial context, one might say, “The stock price plummeted after the company’s CEO resigned.”
A person discussing a failing business might comment, “Sales have plummeted in the past quarter, and we’re struggling to stay afloat.”

4. Dip

To “dip” refers to a small or moderate decline in value, performance, or quality. It is often used to describe a slight decrease or a temporary setback.

For instance, “The temperature dipped below freezing for a few hours.”
In a financial context, one might say, “The stock price dipped slightly before rebounding.”
A person discussing a minor setback might comment, “Our sales dipped this month, but we expect them to pick up again next quarter.”

5. Slide

To “slide” means to gradually and steadily decline or decrease in value, performance, or success. It implies a continuous and often gradual decrease over time.

For example, “The company’s market share has been sliding for the past year.”
In a sports context, one might say, “The team has been sliding down the rankings.”
A person discussing a deteriorating relationship might comment, “Our communication has been sliding, and we’re drifting apart.”

6. Tumble

This slang term refers to a sudden and significant decrease or decline in something, such as a stock market or a business. It implies a quick and steep fall.

For example, “The company’s stock value took a tumble after the CEO’s scandalous revelation.”
In a discussion about sports, someone might say, “The team’s performance tumbled after their star player got injured.”
A person might use this term to describe their personal finances, saying, “My savings account took a tumble after unexpected medical bills.”

7. Drop-off

This slang term refers to a significant decrease or decline in something. It implies a sudden drop or decrease in quantity, quality, or performance.

For instance, “There was a drop-off in attendance at the music festival after the headlining act canceled.”
In a conversation about sales, someone might say, “We noticed a drop-off in customer orders after the price increase.”
A person might use this term to describe a decline in productivity, saying, “There was a drop-off in my work output after I started working from home.”

8. Downturn

This slang term refers to a period of economic decline or recession. It implies a general decrease in economic activity or a negative trend in the economy.

For example, “The country experienced a downturn in GDP growth due to the global financial crisis.”
In a discussion about business, someone might say, “The company’s profits have been affected by the industry downturn.”
A person might use this term to describe a decline in job opportunities, saying, “The current economic downturn has led to layoffs in many industries.”

9. Slump

This slang term refers to a prolonged period of decline or decrease in something, such as performance, productivity, or mood. It implies a prolonged and noticeable drop or decline.

For instance, “The team has been in a slump, losing their last five games.”
In a conversation about motivation, someone might say, “I’ve been in a slump at work and can’t seem to find the motivation to be productive.”
A person might use this term to describe a decline in mental health, saying, “I’ve been in a slump lately and feeling down.”

10. Decrease

This slang term refers to a general decrease or decline in something. It implies a reduction or lowering of quantity, size, intensity, or value.

For example, “There was a decrease in customer satisfaction due to poor service.”
In a discussion about population, someone might say, “The birth rate has been decreasing over the past decade.”
A person might use this term to describe a decline in temperature, saying, “The temperature is expected to decrease throughout the week.”

11. Dwindle

To gradually become smaller, weaker, or less in amount. “Dwindle” is often used to describe a decline in size, quantity, or importance.

For example, “The crowd began to dwindle as the rain started to pour.”
A person discussing a failing business might say, “Our profits are dwindling, and we need to come up with a solution.”
In a conversation about a dying tradition, someone might comment, “The number of participants has dwindled over the years.”

12. Sink

To decrease or fall to a lower level. “Sink” is often used to describe a gradual decline or deterioration.

For instance, “The company’s stock price continued to sink throughout the week.”
A person discussing a failing relationship might say, “Our communication has sunk to an all-time low.”
In a conversation about a declining neighborhood, someone might comment, “Property values have been sinking for years.”

13. Wane

To gradually decrease in size, strength, or intensity. “Wane” is often used to describe a decline in power, influence, or popularity.

For example, “Interest in the sport waned after the star player retired.”
A person discussing a fading trend might say, “The popularity of that fashion style is waning.”
In a conversation about a declining economy, someone might comment, “Consumer confidence has been waning for months.”

14. Ebb

To gradually decline or decrease, especially in intensity or vigor. “Ebb” is often used to describe a decline in strength, energy, or enthusiasm.

For instance, “His motivation began to ebb as the project faced obstacles.”
A person discussing a fading memory might say, “The details of that event have started to ebb from my mind.”
In a conversation about a declining team performance, someone might comment, “Their energy seems to ebb as the game progresses.”

15. Recede

To gradually move back or away from a previous position or level. “Recede” is often used to describe a decline in distance, prominence, or importance.

For example, “The floodwaters receded after days of heavy rain.”
A person discussing a fading hope might say, “My confidence in achieving that goal has receded.”
In a conversation about a declining population, someone might comment, “The number of residents has been receding over the years.”

16. Shrink

When something shrinks, it means that it becomes smaller or reduces in quantity.

For example, “The company’s profits have been shrinking over the past few years.”
A person might say, “I need to shrink my expenses to save money.”
In a discussion about population, someone might mention, “The number of endangered species is shrinking at an alarming rate.”

17. Weaken

To weaken something means to make it less strong or powerful.

For instance, “The team’s performance has weakened since their star player got injured.”
A person might say, “I feel weak after not eating all day.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might state, “Constant arguments can weaken the bond between partners.”

18. Diminish

Diminish means to make something smaller or less significant.

For example, “The impact of the new policy is expected to diminish over time.”
A person might say, “His influence in the company has diminished since he took on a new role.”
In a discussion about climate change, someone might mention, “The melting of polar ice caps diminishes the habitats of many species.”

19. Taper off

When something tapers off, it means that it gradually decreases or reduces in intensity, quantity, or size.

For instance, “The rain started to taper off after a heavy downpour.”
A person might say, “My interest in that TV show has been tapering off lately.”
In a conversation about a party, someone might mention, “The number of attendees tends to taper off towards the end of the night.”

20. Fizzle out

To fizzle out means to gradually lose interest, enthusiasm, or energy.

For example, “The excitement surrounding the new product launch fizzled out quickly.”
A person might say, “Our plans to go on a road trip fizzled out due to conflicting schedules.”
In a discussion about friendships, someone might mention, “Sometimes, relationships fizzle out naturally as people grow apart.”

21. Drop off

This term refers to a decrease or decline in something, often in a sudden or significant way. It can be used to describe a decline in performance, quality, or quantity.

For example, “Sales dropped off after the holiday season.”
In a discussion about a company’s financials, one might say, “Profits have been dropping off steadily.”
A teacher might comment, “I’ve noticed a drop off in student participation lately.”

22. Fall off

Similar to “drop off,” this term also refers to a decrease or decline in something. It can be used to describe a decline in performance, quality, or quantity, but is often used in a more gradual or continuous sense.

For instance, “Interest in the product has been falling off over the past few months.”
In a conversation about a sports team’s performance, one might say, “Their play has really fallen off since the start of the season.”
A manager might observe, “Employee productivity tends to fall off during the summer months.”

23. Backslide

This term refers to a decline or regression in progress or improvement. It implies a return to a previous, less desirable state or behavior.

For example, “After months of sobriety, he unfortunately backslid and started drinking again.”
In a discussion about personal growth, one might say, “It’s important to recognize when we start to backslide and take steps to get back on track.”
A therapist might advise, “If you find yourself backsliding into negative thinking patterns, try to challenge those thoughts and focus on positive affirmations.”

24. Regress

To regress means to move backward or decline in progress or development. It can be used to describe a decline in skills, behavior, or overall performance.

For instance, “The patient’s condition has regressed, and we need to adjust their treatment plan.”
In a conversation about a child’s academic performance, one might say, “He seemed to be making progress, but recently, he’s started to regress.”
A coach might comment, “Sometimes athletes regress in their training before making significant gains.”

25. Deteriorate

This term refers to a gradual or progressive decline in quality, condition, or value. It implies a worsening or deterioration over time.

For example, “The building has deteriorated significantly due to lack of maintenance.”
In a discussion about a relationship, one might say, “Over time, their communication deteriorated, leading to the breakup.”
A doctor might note, “If left untreated, the patient’s condition will continue to deteriorate.”

26. Crumble

To deteriorate or disintegrate rapidly. This term can be used to describe the decline or deterioration of something, such as a relationship, a business, or a person’s mental state.

For example, “After losing his job, his life started to crumble.”
A person discussing a failing business might say, “The company’s profits have crumbled in the past year.”
In a conversation about a deteriorating friendship, someone might say, “Our relationship has slowly crumbled over time.”

27. Degenerate

To deteriorate or decline in terms of morals, values, or intellectual capacity. This term is often used to describe someone or something that has declined from a previously higher state.

For instance, “His behavior has degenerated since he started hanging out with that group.”
A person discussing the decline of a once-great civilization might say, “The empire degenerated into chaos and corruption.”
In a conversation about a deteriorating educational system, someone might say, “The quality of education has degenerated over the years.”

28. Fade

To gradually disappear or decline in intensity, prominence, or influence. This term is often used to describe something that was once strong or noticeable but has gradually diminished.

For example, “His popularity in the music industry has faded over time.”
A person discussing the decline of a trend might say, “That fashion trend has faded into obscurity.”
In a conversation about a declining interest in a particular topic, someone might say, “Public interest in that issue has faded in recent years.”

29. Swoon

To faint or lose consciousness, often due to a sudden emotional or physical reaction. This term can also be used metaphorically to describe a decline in enthusiasm or admiration for someone or something.

For instance, “She swooned when she saw her favorite celebrity in person.”
A person discussing a decline in their interest for a particular musician might say, “I used to swoon over their music, but now I’m not as interested.”
In a conversation about a declining popularity of a TV show, someone might say, “The show’s ratings have been swooning in recent seasons.”

30. Flag

To lose energy, enthusiasm, or strength. This term is often used to describe a decline in motivation or vigor.

For example, “As the day wore on, his energy started to flag.”
A person discussing a decline in their passion for a hobby might say, “My interest in painting has flagged in the past few months.”
In a conversation about a declining performance of an athlete, someone might say, “His performance on the field has been flagging lately.”

31. Languish

To become weak or feeble, often due to neglect or lack of attention. The term “languish” can also refer to a state of prolonged suffering or unhappiness.

For example, “The abandoned building languished in disrepair for years.”
In a discussion about neglected neighborhoods, one might say, “These areas have languished for far too long.”
A person discussing a failing business might note, “Without proper management, the company will languish and eventually close its doors.”

32. Erode

To gradually diminish or deteriorate over time, often due to a natural or gradual process. The term “erode” is commonly used to describe the wearing away of land or material.

For instance, “The constant flow of water eroded the riverbank.”
In a conversation about the effects of climate change, one might say, “Coastal areas are eroding at an alarming rate.”
A person discussing the impact of time might note, “The memories of that event have eroded over the years.”

33. Retrograde

To move or go backward, especially in terms of progress or development. The term “retrograde” can also refer to a decline or regression in quality or value.

For example, “The country’s economy is in retrograde, with negative growth for the past two quarters.”
In a discussion about personal growth, one might say, “Don’t let setbacks cause you to retrograde in your journey.”
A person discussing societal issues might note, “We cannot afford to let our progress retrograde in the face of adversity.”

34. Subside

To become less intense, active, or agitated. The term “subside” often refers to a decrease or calming of a situation or condition.

For instance, “After the storm, the winds subsided and the rain stopped.”
In a conversation about emotions, one might say, “Take deep breaths to help your anger subside.”
A person discussing physical pain might note, “I took medication to help the swelling in my knee subside.”

35. Deterioration

The process of becoming progressively worse or declining in quality or condition. The term “deterioration” can refer to the decay, damage, or weakening of something over time.

For example, “The old building showed signs of deterioration, with crumbling walls and a leaking roof.”
In a discussion about infrastructure, one might say, “Without proper maintenance, roads and bridges will experience rapid deterioration.”
A person discussing health might note, “Lack of exercise can lead to muscle deterioration and loss of strength.”

36. Degradation

Degradation refers to the process of deteriorating or declining in quality, value, or status. It often implies a gradual decline over time.

For example, “The degradation of the environment is a global concern.”
In a discussion about the economy, someone might say, “The degradation of the currency has led to hyperinflation.”
A person reflecting on their personal life might say, “I’ve witnessed the degradation of our friendship over the years.”

37. Disintegrate

Disintegrate means to break apart or collapse into smaller pieces or parts. It can also refer to the collapse or decline of a system or organization.

For instance, “The old building began to disintegrate due to years of neglect.”
In a conversation about a failing relationship, someone might say, “Our marriage has started to disintegrate.”
A person discussing the decline of a political party might say, “The party’s support has disintegrated in recent years.”

38. Deplete

Deplete means to use up or exhaust a resource, resulting in a decline in its quantity or availability.

For example, “The excessive use of fossil fuels has depleted the Earth’s natural resources.”
In a discussion about personal finances, someone might say, “I’ve depleted my savings due to unexpected medical expenses.”
A person discussing the decline of a population might say, “Overfishing has depleted the fish population in this area.”

39. Devolve

Devolve refers to the process of gradually declining or deteriorating, often involving a transfer of power, responsibility, or authority to a lower or less capable entity.

For instance, “The city’s infrastructure has devolved over the years, leading to crumbling roads and bridges.”
In a conversation about government, someone might say, “The central government’s power has devolved to local authorities.”
A person reflecting on a failing organization might say, “The company’s management has devolved into chaos.”

40. Crater

Crater means to collapse or decline rapidly and dramatically, often resulting in a significant loss or failure.

For example, “The stock market craters during times of economic recession.”
In a discussion about a failed business, someone might say, “The company’s poor management caused it to crater.”
A person discussing the decline of a once-thriving neighborhood might say, “Crime rates have caused property values to crater in this area.”

41. Flounder

To struggle or fail to make progress or be successful.

For example, “The company began to flounder after the CEO left.”
In a discussion about a failing business, someone might say, “The company has been floundering for years.”
A student might say, “I’ve been floundering in my math class and need some extra help.”

42. Lapse

To make a mistake or fail to maintain a certain standard or behavior.

For instance, “I had a lapse in judgment and made a poor decision.”
In a conversation about dieting, someone might say, “I had a lapse and ate a whole pizza.”
A person discussing their work performance might admit, “I had a lapse in concentration and made a costly error.”

43. Atrophy

To gradually decline or deteriorate in quality or effectiveness.

For example, “Without regular exercise, your muscles will atrophy.”
In a discussion about a neglected skill, someone might say, “My language skills have atrophied since I stopped practicing.”
A person describing a dying relationship might say, “Our love has atrophied over time.”

44. Fail

To not meet expectations or achieve a desired outcome.

For instance, “I studied all night, but still failed the test.”
In a conversation about a failed project, someone might say, “We failed to meet the deadline.”
A person discussing their New Year’s resolutions might admit, “I’ve already failed at sticking to my diet.”

45. Fizzle

To gradually lose energy, excitement, or interest.

For example, “The party started off great, but eventually fizzled out.”
In a discussion about a failed business venture, someone might say, “The company started strong but quickly fizzled.”
A person describing a disappointing ending to a movie might say, “The film started off promising but fizzled in the third act.”

46. Flagging

This term refers to a decline in energy, enthusiasm, or effectiveness. It often implies a gradual decrease over time.

For example, “The team’s performance has been flagging lately.”
In a discussion about a failing business, someone might say, “The company’s sales have been flagging for months.”
Another usage could be, “I was feeling great at the beginning of the race, but my energy started flagging halfway through.”

47. Wither

To wither means to gradually lose strength, vitality, or importance. It often implies a decline or deterioration.

For instance, “The flowers withered in the scorching heat.”
In a metaphorical sense, someone might say, “His dreams of becoming a musician withered as he grew older.”
Another usage could be, “The once-thriving neighborhood has withered over the years due to neglect.”

48. Stagnate

Stagnate means to cease developing, growing, or advancing. It refers to a state of little or no change or improvement.

For example, “The economy has stagnated, with no signs of improvement.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might say, “I feel like my career has stagnated in my current job.”
Another usage could be, “The project has been stagnating for months, with no new ideas or progress.”

49. Wear off

To wear off means for the effect or influence of something to gradually decrease or disappear.

For instance, “The pain medication started to wear off, and the pain returned.”
In a conversation about a drug’s side effects, someone might say, “The drowsiness usually wears off after a few hours.”
Another usage could be, “The initial excitement of a new relationship tends to wear off over time.”

50. Degraded

Degraded refers to a decline in quality, value, or status. It implies a deterioration or lowering of standards.

For example, “The photo quality degraded after multiple compressions.”
In a discussion about environmental issues, someone might say, “The ecosystem has been degraded due to pollution.”
Another usage could be, “The once prestigious university has degraded in recent years, losing its reputation.”

51. Suffer

When something suffers, it means that it is going through a period of decline or deterioration.

For example, “The company’s profits have suffered due to the economic downturn.”
A person might say, “My grades suffered after I stopped studying regularly.”
In a conversation about a sports team, someone might comment, “The team’s performance has suffered since their star player got injured.”

52. Go downhill

When something goes downhill, it means that it is getting worse or declining in some way.

For instance, “Ever since the new management took over, the company’s customer service has gone downhill.”
In a discussion about a relationship, someone might say, “Our communication used to be great, but it’s been going downhill lately.”
A person might comment, “The quality of this product has really gone downhill since they changed the manufacturing process.”

53. Take a nosedive

When something takes a nosedive, it means that it experiences a sudden and significant decline or drop in quality, performance, or value.

For example, “After the scandal broke, the company’s stock price took a nosedive.”
A person might say, “Her grades took a nosedive after she started skipping classes.”
In a conversation about a sports team, someone might comment, “Their chances of winning the championship took a nosedive after their star player got injured.”

54. Falter

When something falters, it means that it loses strength, momentum, or stability, often resulting in a decline or failure.

For instance, “The economy began to falter due to rising inflation.”
In a discussion about a project, someone might say, “We were making good progress, but then it started to falter.”
A person might comment, “Her confidence faltered after receiving negative feedback.”

55. Slink

When someone slinks, it means that they move or act in a quiet, sneaky, or furtive manner, often implying a decline in confidence, pride, or status.

For example, “He slinked away after being caught in a lie.”
A person might say, “She slinks around the office, avoiding any responsibility.”
In a conversation about someone’s behavior, someone might comment, “His slinking around makes me question his integrity.”

56. Flop

This term is used to describe something that is unsuccessful or does not meet expectations. It can refer to a movie, a product, a performance, or any other endeavor that falls short of success.

For example, “The movie was a flop at the box office, earning only a fraction of its production budget.”
A person might say, “I tried a new recipe last night, but it was a total flop. It didn’t taste good at all.”
In a discussion about a failed business venture, someone might comment, “The company’s new product was a flop, leading to significant financial losses.”

57. Bust

This slang term is often used to describe a complete failure or disappointment. It can refer to a person, an event, a plan, or any other situation that does not turn out as expected.

For instance, “The party was a bust. No one showed up and it was a total flop.”
A person might say, “I thought I could fix my car myself, but it turned out to be a bust. I made it worse.”
In a discussion about a failed investment, someone might comment, “The stock turned out to be a bust. I lost all my money.”

58. Bomb

This slang term is used to describe something that fails spectacularly or is a complete disaster. It can refer to a performance, a joke, a movie, or any other situation that falls flat or does not achieve the desired outcome.

For example, “The comedian’s jokes bombed, and the audience didn’t laugh.”
A person might say, “I thought the new restaurant would be great, but the food was terrible. It was a total bomb.”
In a discussion about a failed business venture, someone might comment, “The company’s new product launch was a bomb. It didn’t generate any interest or sales.”

59. Misfire

This term is often used to describe a situation where something does not work or function as intended. It can refer to a firearm that fails to discharge, a joke that falls flat, or any other situation where an expected outcome does not occur.

For instance, “The gun misfired, and the bullet didn’t come out.”
A person might say, “I tried to make a funny comment, but it misfired and no one laughed.”
In a discussion about a failed attempt at a project, someone might comment, “My first draft misfired. It didn’t convey the message I wanted.”

60. Backpedal

This term is used to describe someone retracting or changing their opinion or position on a particular matter. It can refer to a person who initially took a strong stance but then retreats or tries to distance themselves from their previous statements or actions.

For example, “After receiving backlash, the politician started to backpedal on their controversial statements.”
A person might say, “I initially supported the new policy, but after hearing more about it, I’m starting to backpedal.”
In a discussion about someone changing their mind, someone might comment, “They backpedaled on their promise to never raise taxes.”