déclin

decline, decay

noun deh-KLAN Rare

Usage Note

Déclin describes a gradual downward movement in power, health, quality, or influence. The phrase sur le déclin (on the decline) is very common. The related verb is décliner, which can also mean 'to decline an invitation' or 'to state one's identity' (décliner son identité) — quite separate meanings.

Examples

"La ville est en déclin depuis dix ans."

Natural Translation

The town has been in decline for ten years.

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