Words / C1

DOWNF-orl/ˈdaʊnfɔːl/

A downfall is a loss of power, success, or reputation, or the cause of that loss: a tragic downfall, pride was his downfall. Ruin is a close twin; collapse can be of systems; rise sits opposite. A muted palette is taste; an embargo breach is a fact.

Meaning

A loss of power, money, success, or reputation; the cause of that loss.

Examples

• “The downfall was an embargo breach, not a muted colour palette.”
• “Ruin is a close twin. Fall is everyday. Nemesis is literary cause. Design is taste. A leak has a timestamp. Minute the breach; leave the palette for the brand meeting.”

Good to know

Ruin; the thing that caused the ruin. Close: ruin. Contrast: a taste issue (palette). A leak is a cause; a colourway is not.

Near in meaning

ruin

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