B2verb1K

Decline

UK /["/dɪˈklaɪn/","/dɪˈklaɪnz/","/dɪˈklaɪnd/","/dɪˈklaɪnɪŋ/"]/US /["/dɪˈklaɪn/","/dɪˈklaɪnz/","/dɪˈklaɪnd/","/dɪˈklaɪnɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to become smaller, fewer, weaker, etc.

In simple words: to say no to something or to become less.

Examples

  • She decided to decline the invitation to the party.
  • The company chose to decline the offer due to financial constraints.
  • As the population ages, the number of available workers may decline.
  • His health began to decline after the accident.
  • The decline in sales has caused concern among the investors.
  • He declined to comment on the ongoing investigation.
  • There has been a noticeable decline in air quality in the city.
  • The flowers will decline if they are not watered regularly.

Usage notes

Use 'decline' in formal settings to refuse an offer or request. In informal contexts, 'turn down' is more common. Don't confuse 'decline' with 'decrease'—the former involves refusal, while the latter refers to reduction.

Grammar pattern

decline + object

Memory hint

Think of a decline in sales—a business saying no to bad numbers.

Collocations

  • considerably
  • dramatically
  • drastically
  • by
  • from
  • to
  • decline in importance, numbers, size, etc.
  • politely
  • respectfully

Synonyms

  • refuse1

Antonyms

  • accept
  • agree
  • approve

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'refuse' - 'decline' can sound more polite.
  • Using 'decline' without an object (e.g., 'I will decline' is incomplete without specifying what).
  • Mistaking 'decline' for a physical action rather than a polite refusal.