Word: Downturn
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: A "downturn" refers to a period when business or economic activity decreases or worsens. This often means that people are spending less money, businesses are earning less, and overall economic conditions are not good.
Usage Instructions:
"Downturn" is often used in discussions about the economy, business, or markets.
It is usually used to describe a significant change, not just a small drop.
Example Sentences:
After several years of growth, the economy experienced a downturn that affected many jobs.
The company reported a downturn in sales due to the economic crisis.
Advanced Usage:
In finance, you might hear phrases like "economic downturn," "market downturn," or "recession," which all relate to a decline in economic activity.
You can also use "downturn" in discussions about specific sectors, like "the housing market downturn" or "a downturn in consumer confidence."
Word Variants:
Downturning (verb): The act of decreasing or declining, though this usage is less common.
Downturns (plural noun): Refers to multiple instances of decline.
Different Meanings:
While "downturn" primarily relates to economic conditions, it can sometimes be used more generally to describe any decline in performance or quality, such as "a downturn in production quality."
Synonyms:
Decline
Decrease
Deterioration
Recession
Slump
Related Idioms:
"On the rocks" - This idiom means that something (like a business or relationship) is in trouble or failing, similar to a downturn.
"In a slump" - This phrase describes a period of poor performance or inactivity, which can also relate to a downturn.
Phrasal Verbs:
There aren't specific phrasal verbs directly tied to "downturn," but you might encounter phrases like "drop off" (to decrease) or "fall off" (to diminish) in similar contexts.