Definition

A decrease or reduction in something, often referring to a decline in quantity or quality.

Example

There was a noticeable falloff in attendance at the event this year.

Conversation

Have you noticed the falloff in our local café's customers lately?

Yeah, it seems like fewer people are going there now.

I wonder if it's because of the new place that opened nearby.

That could be it; competition always causes a falloff in business.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Falloff → It is formed from "fall" (from Old English "feallan", meaning to drop or descend) and "off" (meaning away from or not on). The word "falloff" describes the act of something dropping away or decreasing in quantity or intensity.

Memory Tip

Think of something 'dropping away' — 'fall' means to drop, and 'off' means away from. This helps you remember that 'falloff' refers to a decrease or reduction.

Visually Confused Words