German word

Niedergang

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈniːdɐˌgaŋ/

Meaning

  • masculine noundecline

Example

Die Stadt erlebte den langsamen Niedergang.

The city experienced a slow decline.

Illustration for Niedergang (decline)

More examples

Misswirtschaft hat die Region in den Niedergang getrieben.

Mismanagement has driven the region into decline.

Core concept

A powerful institution slowly slips from a high position into weakness and obscurity.

Common phrases

  • der langsame Niedergang

    the slow decline

  • in den Niedergang treiben

    drive ___ into decline

  • der kulturelle Niedergang

    cultural decline

Similar words

Rückgang: A reduction in the amount, number, or level of something.
Abstieg: A gradual fall in rank, reputation, or social position.
Verfall: Long-term decay that leaves a building, institution, or system unable to function.
Untergang: The final collapse and destruction of a society, state, or organization.

Definition in German

das allmähliche Sinken von Bedeutung, Macht oder Wohlstand einer Sache oder eines Ortes.

Word origin

The compound Niedergang combines nieder, down, with Gang, course or movement, and developed the meaning of a decline or downfall.

Usage tips

  • In factual reports, Rückgang is usually more neutral for a decrease, while Niedergang often suggests a broad and prolonged loss of status.

Other meanings

  • downfallnoun
  • fallnoun

Opposites

Related words

  • niedergehengo into declineverb

Word lists with this word