deteriorate
To become progressively worse over time.
Examples
In a meeting
“Client satisfaction will deteriorate if we don't address response times.”
Over coffee
“The weather is supposed to deteriorate throughout the afternoon.”
Why this word
worsen
deteriorate implies gradual decline over time, while worsen can be sudden or temporary
decline
deteriorate emphasizes physical or quality degradation, while decline can refer to abstract decreases
decay
deteriorate is broader and more formal, while decay often implies organic or structural breakdown
Usage tip
Implies gradual decline, not sudden collapse. Works for conditions, relationships, quality, and health.
Etymology
Latin deteriorare — deterior (worse, lower), from de (down) + -terior (comparative suffix)
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Related words
revamp
To give new and improved form, structure, or appearance to something.
pivot
Change direction or strategy while maintaining a central focus
stagnate
Stop developing or progressing
backtrack
To reverse a previous decision or statement
revert
To return to a previous state or practice
proliferate
To increase rapidly in number; multiply