Synonyms for

Degradation

Verb / ˌdegrʌˈdeɪʃʌn / Another word for degradation — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The act of lowering in quality or value.

Synonyms & similar words

abjection debasement abasement deterioration decline decay degeneration devaluation downgrade downfall fall lowering reduction debasement corruption disgrace shame humiliation dishonor demotion abasement impairment damage

Synonyms by register

Formal

deterioration decay decomposition impairment

Informal

worsening breakdown going downhill

Literary

ebbing waning

Antonyms

advancement improvement enhancement progress development elevation amelioration

Common collocations

  • environmental degradation
  • social degradation
  • moral degradation
  • quality degradation
  • tissue degradation
  • data degradation
  • soil degradation

Word family

noun degradation
verb degrade
adjective degraded
adverb degradingly

Usage note

Degradation often implies a loss of status, quality, or value, and can be used in both physical and abstract contexts. Be mindful of its strong negative connotation.

Example sentences

  1. The degradation of the forest has led to the extinction of many species.
  2. The degradation of the building was caused by years of neglect.
  3. The degradation of the water supply has made it unsafe to drink.
  4. The degradation of the air quality is a major health concern.
  5. The degradation of the soil has made it difficult to grow crops.

Quotes

  • Degradation of the physical environment is not only a matter of aesthetics and health but also a matter of survival. - Dalai Lama
  • The degradation of women is perhaps the most obvious and oppressive aspect of the culture of Islam. - Ayaan Hirsi Ali
  • The degradation of our environment, our natural resources, and our ecosystems may be the most significant challenge facing our planet today. - Sam Farr

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words