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Synonym Chooser

How does the noun deterioration differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of deterioration are decadence, decline, and degeneration. While all these words mean "the falling from a higher to a lower level in quality, character, or vitality," deterioration implies generally the impairment of value or usefulness.

the deterioration of the house through neglect

When can decadence be used instead of deterioration?

In some situations, the words decadence and deterioration are roughly equivalent. However, decadence presupposes a reaching and passing the peak of development and implies a turn downward with a consequent loss in vitality or energy.

cited love of luxury as a sign of cultural decadence

How do decline and decadence relate to one another, in the sense of deterioration?

Decline differs from decadence in suggesting a more markedly downward direction and greater momentum as well as more obvious evidence of deterioration.

the meteoric decline of his career after the scandal

When could degeneration be used to replace deterioration?

The words degeneration and deterioration are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, degeneration stresses physical, intellectual, or especially moral retrogression.

the degeneration of their youthful idealism into cynicism

Examples of deterioration in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Driving the news: The Biden administration is extremely concerned about the deterioration of the humanitarian situation in Gaza, especially as Israeli Defense Forces renew their operations in the northern Gaza Strip. Barak Ravid, Axios, 15 Oct. 2024 For the West Bank, dramatic deterioration Family members bury Amro Najjar, 10, a burial at the local cemetery in Burin, West Bank, March 5, 2024. Yasmeen Serhan, TIME, 7 Oct. 2024 In addition to this, using excessive water or harsh chemical cleaners can then lead to moisture accumulation around window seals, which can potentially cause mould growth or deterioration of the frame around the windows. Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 27 Sep. 2024 But over the years, Banyan Drive has lost some of its magic as Uncle Billy’s condemnation turned into complete deterioration. Will McGough, Forbes, 11 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for deterioration 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'deterioration.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near deterioration

Cite this Entry

“Deterioration.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/deterioration. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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