descent / decline
der Sinkflug, die Sinkflüge
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descent
The controlled descent of an aircraft from a greater altitude toward the ground, usually as part of a landing approach.
Der Pilot leitete den Sinkflug kurz vor dem Flughafen ein.
The pilot began the descent shortly before reaching the airport.
downward spiral
A sharp and generally problematic downward trend, for example in the economy, stock prices, or the performance of a person or team.
Nach mehreren Skandalen geriet das Unternehmen in einen wirtschaftlichen Sinkflug.
After several scandals, the company went into an economic downward spiral.
| gender | masculine der |
|---|---|
| plural | die Sinkflüge |
| genitive | des Sinkfluges |
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | der Sinkflug | die Sinkflüge |
| accusative | den Sinkflug | die Sinkflüge |
| dative | dem Sinkflug | den Sinkflügen |
| genitive | des Sinkfluges des Sinkflugs | der Sinkflüge |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
'Sinkflug' consists of 'sink-' from 'sinken' (to sink) and 'Flug' (flight). The compound therefore describes a flight in which an aircraft sinks downward.
Während des Sinkflugs erklärte der Pilot den weiteren Ablauf der Landung.
During the descent, the pilot explained the rest of the landing procedure.
When referring to an aircraft, 'Sinkflug' frequently occurs with verbs such as 'einleiten' (to begin), 'beginnen' (to start), and 'sich im Sinkflug befinden' (to be in descent). The destination or reason for the descent is also often mentioned.
Die Maschine leitete den Sinkflug über dem Meer ein.
The aircraft began its descent over the sea.
In its figurative meaning, 'Sinkflug' frequently occurs with words related to the economy, the stock market, performance, or sports. Signal words such as 'Aktienkurse' (stock prices), 'Umsatz' (sales), 'Leistung' (performance), or 'Mannschaft' (team) show that no aircraft movement is meant.
Die Aktien des Konzerns befinden sich seit Monaten im Sinkflug.
The company's shares have been in a downward spiral for months.
