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adj Uncommon

decreasing

dee-KREE-sihng

Decreasing (adj) means becoming smaller or fewer over time. Example: “Sales figures showed a decreasing trend over the past three quarters.”

adj
1
Becoming smaller or fewer over time.
"Sales figures showed a decreasing trend over the past three quarters."

How to use decreasing

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishGetting smaller, less, or fewer as time goes on.

Common pairings
decreasing trend steadily decreasing decreasing rate

Word forms

decreasings plural

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Test yourself on “decreasing” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

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Can you complete this real example?

Sales figures showed a _____ trend over the past three quarters.

Related words

Rhymes for decreasing

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Frequently asked questions

What does “decreasing” mean?

The word “decreasing” means becoming smaller or fewer over time. In plain terms, getting smaller, less, or fewer as time goes on.

How do you pronounce “decreasing”?

“Decreasing” is pronounced dee-KREE-sihng (/diˈkɹiːsɪŋ/ in IPA).

How do you use “decreasing” in a sentence?

Here is “decreasing” used in a sentence: “Sales figures showed a decreasing trend over the past three quarters.”

What is the opposite of “decreasing”?

The opposite of “decreasing” — its antonyms — is increasing.

What part of speech is “decreasing”?

“Decreasing” is an adjective.

Is “decreasing” a common word?

“Decreasing” is an uncommon word in modern English.

What is the difference between decreasing and declining?

Decreasing specifically means becoming smaller or fewer over time, usually describing a quantity or measurement. Declining is broader, describing something becoming weaker, smaller, or worse, which can include a drop in quality as well as quantity.

Is decreasing used mainly for numbers and quantities?

Yes, decreasing is most commonly applied to measurable quantities, such as decreasing population, decreasing prices, or decreasing temperature, describing a steady reduction in amount.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial