tumble-down
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: - In a state of disrepair or ruin; dilapidated: Describes a building or structure that is falling apart or in very poor condition, often appearing as if it might collapse.
Usage
- Used to describe buildings, houses, or other structures that are old, neglected, and physically deteriorating.
- It implies a sense of instability and decay.
Examples
Advanced Usage
- The term often carries a somewhat picturesque or romantic connotation when describing rustic decay, though it always denotes poor physical condition.
- It can be used metaphorically to describe systems or organizations that are failing or poorly maintained, though this is less common.
- The tumble-down bureaucracy was unable to respond to the crisis.
Variants and Related Words
- Tumbledown (adjective): An alternative, often hyphenated, spelling of "tumble-down."
- Dilapidated (adjective): In a state of disrepair or ruin as a result of age or neglect.
- Ramshackle (adjective): In a state of severe disrepair; rickety.
- Decrepit (adjective): Worn out or ruined because of age or neglect.
Synonyms
- Dilapidated
- Ramshackle
- Decrepit
- Rickety
- Derelict
- Broken-down
Antonyms
- Sturdy
- Solid
- Well-maintained
- Pristine
- Intact
Related Idioms and Phrases
- Falling apart at the seams: An idiom meaning in very bad condition and likely to fail.
- Going to rack and ruin: An idiom meaning falling into a state of severe disrepair or decay.
Adjective
- in deplorable condition
- a street of bedraggled tenements
- a broken-down fence
- a ramshackle old pier
- a tumble-down shack