downhill slide / descent
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downhill slide
A phase of decline, deterioration, or loss of value, especially on the stock market, in sports, or in the economy.
Nach der Gewinnwarnung befand sich die Aktie des Unternehmens auf Talfahrt.
After the profit warning, the company's stock was on a downhill slide.
descent
The trip or ride down from a mountain or hill into the valley.
Nach der anstrengenden Wanderung genossen wir die entspannte Talfahrt mit der Seilbahn.
After the strenuous hike, we enjoyed the relaxing descent by cable car.
The word is made up of 'das Tal' (the valley) and 'die Fahrt' (the ride/trip). The literal meaning 'ride into the valley' is the basis for the figurative meaning of a decline.
Die Talfahrt mit den Skiern hat viel Spaß gemacht.
The downhill run on skis was a lot of fun.
The literal meaning refers to mountains, cable cars, or hikes. The figurative, more common meaning is found in the context of business (stocks, prices), sports (league position), or politics (poll numbers).
Die letzte Talfahrt mit der Gondel ist um 17 Uhr. (wörtlich)
The last descent by gondola is at 5 p.m. (literal)
In the figurative meaning, 'Talfahrt' (downhill slide) is often used with certain verbs. Typical phrases are 'auf Talfahrt sein' (to be on a downhill slide), 'sich auf Talfahrt befinden' (to be on a downhill slide), or 'die Talfahrt stoppen' (to stop the downhill slide).
Die Noten des Schülers waren im letzten Halbjahr auf Talfahrt.
The student's grades were on a downhill slide in the last semester.
departure / exit
Both words can describe traveling downhill in a vehicle into the valley. Talfahrt emphasizes the direction of travel, while Abfahrt focuses more on the act or time of setting off. For a cable car traveling downward, either word may fit depending on what you want to say.
Während der Talfahrt mit der Seilbahn sahen wir den ganzen See.
During the cable car ride down into the valley, we saw the entire lake.
Die Abfahrt der Seilbahn ins Tal beginnt um neun Uhr.
The cable car's departure for the valley begins at nine o'clock.
