decline / receding
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decline
A reduction or decrease in something, for example in numbers, values, production, or interest. It describes a negative development or a reduction.
Das Unternehmen verzeichnete im letzten Quartal einen deutlichen Rückgang der Verkaufszahlen.
The company recorded a significant decline in sales figures in the last quarter.
receding
Movement back to an earlier place or state. This meaning is rarer and often more formal than the meaning of a decrease.
Nach dem Hochwasser beobachtete man den langsamen Rückgang der Flut.
After the flood, people observed the slow receding of the floodwaters.
The word is made up of 'rück-' (back) and 'der Gang' (movement). A 'Rückgang' is therefore literally a movement back, which describes both the decrease of numbers and physical backward movement.
Der Rückgang der Arbeitslosenzahlen ist ein positives Signal für die Wirtschaft.
The decline in unemployment figures is a positive signal for the economy.
In its most common meaning, 'Rückgang' is often used in economic or statistical contexts. Typical combinations are 'ein Rückgang der Preise' (a decline in prices), 'der Nachfrage' (in demand), or 'der Produktion' (in production). It is often described with adjectives such as 'deutlich' (significant), 'stark' (sharp), or 'leicht' (slight).
Die Firma meldet einen leichten Rückgang des Gewinns.
The company reports a slight decline in profit.
The rarer meaning of a physical backward movement is found mainly in connection with water or ice. Pay attention to phrases like 'der Rückgang des Hochwassers' (the receding of the floodwaters) or 'der Rückgang eines Gletschers' (the retreat of a glacier).
Nach dem Sturm begann der langsame Rückgang des Wasserspiegels.
After the storm, the slow receding of the water level began.
return
Rückkehr is the usual term for coming back to a previous place or state. Rückgang can also express this, but it sounds unusual and formal in this sense. In everyday situations, Rückkehr is therefore usually the appropriate choice.
Der Bericht beschreibt den Rückgang der Gruppe auf ihre frühere Position.
The report describes the group's retreat to its former position.
Nach dem Einsatz bereitete die Gruppe ihre Rückkehr zum Ausgangspunkt vor.
After the operation, the group prepared to return to its starting point.
