衰退する

• Reading: すいたいする
• Romaji: suitai suru
• Kanji breakdown: 衰 (sui) — to decline, weaken; 退 (tai) — to retreat, withdraw
• Pronunciation: /sɯ.i.ta.i.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To decline; to wane; to deteriorate. Describes the gradual weakening or decay of something that was once strong or thriving.

A する verb formed from the noun 衰退 (decline/decay). The opposite of 発展 and 成長. Used for civilisations, industries, cultures, and institutions that lose power or vitality over time. Common in history, economics, and cultural commentary. A serious, formal word rarely used in casual speech.

Examples

1. その産業は時代の変化とともに衰退した。 That industry declined along with the changing times.
2. 地方の商店街が衰退している問題は深刻だ。 The decline of local shopping districts is a serious issue.
3. 伝統文化の衰退を防ぐ取り組みが必要だ。 Efforts are needed to prevent the decline of traditional culture.

Usage Guide

Context: history, economics, cultural commentary

Tone: somber

Origin & History

Compound of 衰 (sui, to decline/weaken) and 退 (tai, to retreat/withdraw). Together they describe a weakening retreat — fading from power.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: Adults

Social background: Educated