# decelerate

**Pronunciation:** /diːˈseləreɪt/ · dee-SEL-uh-rayt

**CEFR level:** C1

**Part of speech:** verb

## Meaning

Reduce the speed of a moving object or process.

## Examples

- The train began to decelerate as it approached the station platform.
- Economic growth started to decelerate following the sudden increase in interest rates.
- Pilots must decelerate the aircraft significantly before landing on the short runway.

## Synonyms

- slow down — The most common, everyday phrasal verb for reducing speed.
- brake — Specifically refers to using a mechanical device to slow a vehicle.
- decelerate — A formal or technical term used in engineering, science, or aviation.
- retard — A highly formal or technical term meaning to delay or slow the progress of a process.

## Antonyms

- accelerate — The direct opposite, meaning to increase speed or rate.

## Common patterns

- decelerate to [speed] — slowing down until reaching a specific speed — The cyclist had to decelerate to 10 mph to navigate the sharp turn.
- decelerate from [speed] — the act of slowing down starting from a higher speed — The car decelerated from highway speeds to a complete stop.

Canonical URL: https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english/decelerate

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