tapering off
Definition
- Adjective:
- Gradually decreasing in amount, intensity, or degree until little remains: Describes a process of slow, steady reduction that eventually leads to a very small or negligible level.
Usage
- The adjective "tapering off" is used to describe a trend, activity, or quantity that is in the process of diminishing slowly and steadily. It implies a gradual conclusion rather than a sudden stop.
- It often functions as a predicate adjective following a linking verb like "is," "are," "was," or "were."
- Example:
Examples
- Adjective:
- The rain became a tapering off drizzle before finally stopping.
- We've seen tapering off interest in the product since the new version was announced.
- His involvement in the project has been tapering off for months.
Advanced Usage
- As a Verbal Concept: While "tapering off" is defined here as an adjective, it is crucial to note its common origin from the phrasal verb "to taper off." This verb form means .
- The number of applications began to taper off in August. (Phrasal verb)
- We are observing a tapering-off period. (Here, "tapering-off" acts as a compound adjective modifying "period").
Variants and Related Words
- Taper (verb): To diminish or reduce in thickness, width, or intensity gradually toward one end.
- The road tapers as it enters the forest.
- Taper (noun): A slender candle; or the shape of something that becomes gradually narrower.
- Tapered (adjective): Having a shape that becomes gradually narrower.
- She wore pants with a tapered leg.
Synonyms
- Diminishing: Becoming less.
- Subsiding: Becoming less intense or severe.
- Abating: Becoming less intense or widespread.
- Waning: Gradually decreasing in vigor, power, or extent.
- Dwindling: Gradually becoming smaller.
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Taper off (verb): To reduce gradually in amount or intensity.
- The doctor advised him to taper off the medication slowly.
Related Idioms
- To wind down: To gradually reduce activity before stopping.
- The company is winding down its operations in the region. (This is similar but can imply a more deliberate, managed process).
Adjective
-
gradually decreasing until little remains
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