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fall
This word conveys a sense of surrender to gravity or an inevitable descent, whether physical, emotional, or systemic. It often implies a lack of agency or a sudden transition from a state of stability to one of instability or lower value.
When used as a noun to describe the season, it is specific to North American English, contrasting with the British preference for autumn. In historical or political contexts, it denotes a catastrophic collapse rather than a simple decline, evoking the image of a great structure crumbling.
Meanings
To move downward rapidly and freely without control, typically from a higher to a lower position.
The apple did not fall far from the tree.
To enter a particular state or condition, often unexpectedly or gradually.
They fell in love during their first summer together.
To decrease in number, amount, intensity, or value.
The temperature is expected to fall sharply tonight.
To cut down a tree by chopping at the trunk.
The lumberjacks had to fall several old oaks to clear the path.
The act of dropping or descending from a higher to a lower level.
The waterfall is a spectacular fall of water from the cliff.
Examples
The fall of the dynasty changed everything.
Phrasal Verbs
fall apart
to break into pieces or to suffer an emotional collapse
The old book began to fall apart as soon as I touched it.
fall behind
to fail to keep pace with others or a schedule
He fell behind in his payments and eventually lost the house.
fall through
to fail to happen or be completed
Our plans for the weekend fell through because of the storm.
fall out
to have a disagreement and stop being friendly
The two best friends fell out over a silly misunderstanding.
fall back
to retreat or move back from a position
The army was forced to fall back to the river.