B1adjective3K

Downward

UK /["/ˈdaʊnwəd/"]/US /["/ˈdaʊnwərd/"]/

Definition

moving or pointing towards a lower level

In simple words: Going or facing towards a lower position.

Examples

  • the downward slope of a hill
  • the downward trend in inflation
  • She was trapped in a **downward spiral** *(= continuous increase)* of personal unhappiness.
  • The business was on a downward path, finally closing in 2019.
  • Subsidence is the downward movement of a site on which a building stands.

Usage notes

Commonly used in both written and spoken English. Can describe physical movement or figurative situations, such as emotions. Less used in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

downward + motion or direction

Memory hint

Think of 'downward' as a 'down arrow' pointing towards the ground.

Collocations

  • move downward
  • look downward
  • trend downward
  • shift downward
  • go downward

Synonyms

  • down
  • beneath
  • lower
  • falling
  • decreasing

Antonyms

  • upward
  • ascending

Common mistakes

  • Using 'downward' as an adjective without a noun (e.g., 'downward movement' should be used).
  • Confusing with 'downwards' — both are correct, but usage may vary by region.
  • Misplacing the word in a sentence, leading to unclear meaning.