deterioration implies generally the impairment of value or usefulness.
the deterioration of the house through neglect
degeneration stresses physical, intellectual, or especially moral retrogression.
the degeneration of their youthful idealism into cynicism
decadence presupposes a reaching and passing the peak of development and implies a turn downward with a consequent loss in vitality or energy.
cited love of luxury as a sign of cultural decadence
decline differs from decadence in suggesting a more markedly downward direction and greater momentum as well as more obvious evidence of deterioration.
the meteoric decline of his career after the scandal
Example Sentences
the gradual deterioration of the weather a deterioration of academic standards
Recent Examples on the WebMetal-eating bacteria and deep-sea currents are the main culprits behind the deterioration, reported Ben Finley for the Associated Press in June 2021. Michelle Harris, Smithsonian Magazine, 6 Sep. 2022 That deterioration gives surrounding nations with human rights issues more breathing room, according to Currie.Fox News, 31 Aug. 2022 There’s an active debate over whether nursing-home deterioration is caused by private-equity acquisition, as senior-care advocates contend, or if private-equity firms tend to acquire homes that are already deteriorating. Yasmin Rafiei, The New Yorker, 25 Aug. 2022 The four buildings have been vacant for decades, with serious deterioration behind the scenes, Indiana Landmarks said. Claire Rafford, The Indianapolis Star, 22 Aug. 2022 But now, after a half decade of unchecked deterioration? Nick Fuller Googins, Men's Health, 17 Aug. 2022 Low socioeconomic status has been found to impact long-term health deterioration and acceleration of aging among seniors.San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Aug. 2022 There is plenty of blame to go around for the MBTA’s deterioration, even though Baker gets tagged most frequently and vociferously. Larry Edelman, BostonGlobe.com, 12 Aug. 2022 The bipartisan commission, an independent watchdog, issues an annual report on global religious liberty and deterioration of human rights. Adelle M. Banks, Washington Post, 12 Aug. 2022 See More