downshifts

noun

plural of downshift
as in decelerations
a usually gradual decrease in the pace or level of activity of something there are promising indications of a turnaround in the prolonged economic downshift

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of downshifts Smoother downshifts while braking matter more, but trying to step up a gear at full throttle anywhere near redline seemed to challenge the clutch-free system. — Michael Van Runkle, Robb Report, 21 Sep. 2026 Rolling on the throttle produces immediate forward motion - bingo - without requiring frantic downshifts or high engine speeds. — Josh Max, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026 The sound of the hybrid V8 is mighty, and the sound of the upshifts and downshifts is downright violent. — Jerry Perez, The Drive, 15 July 2026 The already dirge-like film downshifts further, towards a more pleasant state of repose, as Robin convalesces. — David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 11 June 2026 This increases alertness, boosts available energy and temporarily downshifts nonessential functions like digestion. — Daryl Austin, USA Today, 30 May 2026 Here’s where the trip downshifts into Southern charm. — Lauren Schuster, Kansas City Star, 28 Apr. 2026 As the 11-year cycle downshifts from solar maximum to solar minimum, the lights will begin to diminish in frequency and intensity. — The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Mar. 2026 Speaking of which, Honda also gives you an assist/slipper clutch that ought to help you with your downshifts. — New Atlas, 5 Nov. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for downshifts
  1. decelerations
  2. declines
  3. drops
  4. slowdowns
Noun
  • Match analysis from professional football also suggests around a quarter fewer explosive accelerations and decelerations at altitude than at sea level.
    — Alan McCall, New York Times, 1 July 2026
Definition of decelerations
Noun
  • Things already had been tough internally amid the engagement challenges hurting Netflix’s stock as high-profile series had not performed to expectations and most returning shows have seen viewership declines season-to-season over the past year.
    — Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Sarandos told investors in July that such declines are typical and that second season falloff is slightly improved this year.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2026
Definition of declines
Noun
  • Her eye doctor said over-the-counter drops weren’t addressing the inflammation underneath.
    — Samantha Agate, Sacbee.com, 19 Oct. 2026
  • Designed by Martin Katz, the bra featured nearly 3,900 gemstones, including two black diamond drops and 120 round white diamonds, with a total weight of 1,500 carats.
    — Amanda Le, InStyle, 17 Oct. 2026
Definition of drops
Noun
  • The move comes amid a global shortage largely attributed to slowdowns of the passage of oil through the Strait of Hormuz.
    — Rebecca Schneid, Time, 3 Oct. 2026
  • While iPhone sales increased an impressive 21% in the most recent quarter, the business has experienced significant slowdowns in recent years, with sales even declining in some quarters.
    — Alexei Oreskovic, Fortune, 8 Sep. 2026
Definition of slowdowns

Browse Nearby Words

downshift
downshifts
downside
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Cite this Entry

“Downshifts.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/downshifts. Accessed 21 Oct. 2026.

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