downturn
Downturn (noun) means a decline in economic activity, business, or some other measurable trend. Example: “The company laid off staff during the economic downturn.”
How to use downturn
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThings getting worse, usually said about the economy, sales, or business.
Word forms
downturned past tense, downturns plural, downturns singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The company laid off staff during the economic _____.
Etymology
From down + turn — a "turning downward" of a trend.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “downturn” mean?
The word “downturn” means a decline in economic activity, business, or some other measurable trend. In plain terms, things getting worse, usually said about the economy, sales, or business.
How do you pronounce “downturn”?
“Downturn” is pronounced DOWN-turn (/ˈdaʊntɝn/ in IPA).
How do you use “downturn” in a sentence?
Here is “downturn” used in a sentence: “The company laid off staff during the economic downturn.”
What part of speech is “downturn”?
“Downturn” is a noun.
Is “downturn” a common word?
“Downturn” is an uncommon word in modern English.