Legacy synonym data
Synonyms for “Devolve” — 7 Other Ways to Say It
grow worse
Meaning of Devolve
grow worse
7 Synonyms for Devolve — Words Similar to Devolve
Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.
deteriorate
/dɪˈtɪəriəreɪt/To get worse over time. Something that was okay becomes bad, or bad becomes worse.
Example: The patient's health deteriorated rapidly after the infection spread.
drop
/drɒp/To release something so it falls to the ground or a lower place.
Example: I accidentally dropped my phone on the floor.
fall
/fɔːl/To move down toward the ground, usually by accident.
Example: I will fall if I do not hold the railing.
return
/rɪˈtɜːrn/To go back somewhere you were before. To come home or to a previous location.
Example: I return home every evening at six.
pass
/pæs/To move from one side to the other of a person or place; to go past something.
Example: I pass the supermarket on my way to work every morning.
accrue
/əˈkruː/To build up gradually over time. Money that increases a little bit each period until you use it or receive it (like interest accruing in a savings account).
Example: Interest accrues on your savings account each month.
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Devolve
What is another word for "devolve"?
Common synonyms for "devolve" include: deteriorate, drop, degenerate, fall, return.
What can I say instead of "devolve"?
Try one of these alternatives: deteriorate, drop, degenerate, fall, return. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
When should I use "devolve" instead of "deteriorate"?
Use "devolve" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "deteriorate" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.