der Abstieg, -e
descent · relegation
Ein Vorgang, bei dem etwas oder jemand von einer höheren Position zu einer niedrigeren gelangt, oft verbunden mit einer Verschlechterung.
Definition & meaning
The German noun Abstieg primarily refers to the physical act of moving downwards, such as descending a mountain or climbing down from a ladder.
Beyond its literal meaning, it is frequently used in a figurative sense to describe:
- A decline in status, success, or quality: For example, a sports team falling to a lower league or a person losing their social standing.
- A downward path or route: The specific trail or way one takes to get down from a height.
Grammar & Word origin
- Grammar: Masculine noun (der Abstieg), plural: die Abstiege.
- Word origin: The word is a compound of the prefix ab- (indicating "off" or "down") and the noun Stieg (derived from the verb steigen, meaning to climb or rise). It represents the opposite movement of an Aufstieg.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- Abwärtsbewegung (downward movement)
- Niedergang (decline/downfall)
- Abstiegsweg (descent path)
- Abfall (drop/decline)
Antonyms:
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Examples
Der Abstieg war sehr steil.noun
The descent was very steep.
Ein schwieriger Abstieg steht bevor.noun
A difficult descent lies ahead.
Ein Abstieg könnte für das Team demotivierend sein.noun
A relegation could be demotivating for the team.
Nach dem Abstieg fühlen wir uns erschöpft.noun
After the descent, we feel exhausted.
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