Meaning
衰退 describes a process of becoming weaker, smaller, or less successful over time. It commonly refers to economic recession, physical decline, or the weakening of any system or organization. The word conveys a sense of gradual deterioration from a previous stronger state.
Usage
Frequently used in formal contexts like economics, medicine, and social commentary. Common in news reports about economic downturns (经济衰退). Can describe both concrete decline (physical health) and abstract deterioration (power, influence). Often paired with words indicating degree like 严重 (serious) or 逐渐 (gradual).
Examples
- 01全球经济正面临衰退的风险。.The global economy is facing the risk of recession.
- 02他的健康状况开始衰退了。.His health has started to decline.
Characters
Common collocations
- 经济衰退economic recession
- 衰退期period of decline, recession
- 严重衰退severe decline
- 陷入衰退to fall into recession
Antonyms
Origin
Both characters individually convey decline: 衰 originally depicted withered grass or aging, while 退 shows retreating or moving backward. Together they emphasize the progressive nature of decline.