decline
/dɪˈklaɪn/
CEFR level B2Topic EconomyWord #4039 in the learning path
下降；衰退
Definitions
v. To become smaller, weaker, or less successful.
下降；衰退
n. A reduction in amount, strength, quality, or importance.
下降；衰退
v. To politely refuse an offer, invitation, or request.
谢绝；婉拒
Example
I thanked her for dinner but declined the invitation.
我感谢她邀我吃饭，但婉拒了邀请。
As public transport improves, private car use may decline, reducing congestion and air pollution in urban areas.
随着公共交通改善，私家车使用量可能下降，从而缓解城市拥堵和空气污染。
Collocations
- a sharp decline
- a decline in sales
- decline an invitation
- decline to comment
Word family
- declining (adj.)
Synonyms
- decrease
- deteriorate
- refuse
Antonyms
- increase
- accept
Usage tip
下降用decline in；婉拒做某事用decline to do。
FAQ
- What does decline mean?
- To become smaller, weaker, or less successful. A reduction in amount, strength, quality, or importance. To politely refuse an offer, invitation, or request.
- How is decline pronounced?
- UK /dɪˈklaɪn/, US /dɪˈklaɪn/. Use the audio buttons above to listen.
