How to Say "decline" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “decline” is “caída” — use 'caída' when referring to a sudden drop in value, quantity, or level, often unexpectedly..
caída
Examples
La caída de la bolsa fue una sorpresa para todos los inversores.
The drop in the stock market was a surprise for all investors.
disminución
Examples
Hay una disminución en el precio de la fruta.
There is a decrease in the price of fruit.
decadencia
/deh-kah-DEN-syah//dekaˈdenθja/
Examples
La decadencia del Imperio Romano duró varios siglos.
The decline of the Roman Empire lasted several centuries.
El barrio ha entrado en una fase de decadencia.
The neighborhood has entered a phase of decay.
El edificio muestra signos claros de decadencia física.
The building shows clear signs of physical deterioration.
Always Feminine
This word is a feminine naming word. You must always use feminine markers like 'la' or 'una' with it.
Describing the Cause
When you want to say what is declining, use the word 'de' (of) immediately after 'decadencia'.
Don't use it as an action
Mistake: “La ciudad decadencia mucho.”
Correction: La ciudad está en decadencia.
eclipse
/eh-KLEE-pseh//eˈklipse/
Examples
El éxito de la nueva canción supuso el eclipse de su carrera anterior.
The success of the new song meant the overshadowing of his previous career.
La crisis política provocó un eclipse de los valores democráticos.
The political crisis caused a decline of democratic values.
Su fama sufrió un eclipse repentino tras el escándalo.
His fame suffered a sudden decline after the scandal.
Showing what is hidden
Use 'de' after eclipse to show who or what is losing their shine: 'el eclipse de su fama'.
Avoid 'por'
Mistake: “El eclipse por su rival.”
Correction: El eclipse de su rival. Use 'de' to describe the person or thing undergoing the decline.
Caída vs. Disminución
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