"in a decline" vs "on a decline"

Question

"in a decline" vs "on a decline"

Both "in a decline" and "on a decline" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "In a decline" is commonly used to describe a situation where something is decreasing or deteriorating, while "on a decline" is less common and may be used in a more literal sense, such as being physically positioned on a downward slope.

Last Updated: March 29, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate that something is experiencing a decrease or deterioration in quality, quantity, or value.

Examples:

The company is in a decline due to poor management.
Her health is in a decline after the accident.
The economy is in a decline as a result of the pandemic.
The team is in a decline since their star player got injured.
The neighborhood is in a decline because of increased crime rates.

Alternatives:

experiencing a decline
undergoing a decline
going through a decline
suffering a decline
facing a decline

This phrase can be used to describe a physical position on a downward slope or incline.

Examples:

The hikers were on a decline as they descended the mountain.
The skier lost control while on a decline.
The road is on a decline, so be careful while driving down.
The house is built on a decline, offering a beautiful view of the valley.
The bike picked up speed while on a decline.

Alternatives:

on a downward slope
descending
going downhill
on an incline
sloping downward

Answer 1

in a decline

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to describe a situation where something is decreasing or deteriorating.

Answer 2

on a decline

This phrase is correct but less commonly used. It may be used in a more literal sense, such as being physically positioned on a downward slope.

"in a decline" vs "on a decline"

in a decline

on a decline

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