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stagnate

verb

/staɡˈneɪt

IPA:

Dictionary definition of stagnate

To become or remain inactive or stale, often with little or no growth, advancement, or development.
"The project's progress started to stagnate due to lack of funding."

Detailed meaning of stagnate

This word is often used to describe a situation or condition in which there is little or no growth or progress, and things are essentially stuck in a state of limbo. For example, an economy may stagnate when there is a lack of investment or innovation, leading to high unemployment and low productivity. A person's career may also stagnate if they are not able to advance or develop new skills over time. When something is said to be "stagnating," it can suggest a lack of vitality or momentum, as well as a risk of decline or decay. To counteract stagnation, it may be necessary to take proactive steps to stimulate growth, such as investing in new technology, seeking out new opportunities, or engaging in creative problem-solving. Ultimately, the verb "stagnate" suggests a state of inactivity or lack of progress that can be detrimental to both individuals and organizations if left unchecked.

Example sentences containing stagnate

1. The water levels stagnate in the stagnant pond.
2. The economy will stagnate without proper investment.
3. If you don't take action, your career may stagnate.
4. Lack of motivation can cause your progress to stagnate.
5. The company's growth started to stagnate after the recession.
6. The political situation can stagnate if no compromises are made.

History and etymology of stagnate

The verb 'stagnate' has its origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'stagnare,' which means 'to stagnate' or 'to be stagnant.' 'Stagnare' is related to 'stagna,' which refers to standing water or a pool. Therefore, the etymology of 'stagnate' conveys the idea of becoming like stagnant water—inactive, still, and without movement. In English, it is used to describe the state of becoming or remaining inactive or stale, often with little or no growth, advancement, or development. The term 'stagnate' underscores the concept of a lack of progress or vitality, reflecting its historical connection to the idea of standing still and remaining unchanged, much like stagnant water in a pool.

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Further usage examples of stagnate

1. Stagnate in your comfort zone, and you won't experience personal growth.
2. The traffic jam caused the cars to stagnate on the highway.
3. A stagnant market can be challenging for businesses.
4. When opportunities dry up, creativity can stagnate.
5. If you don't challenge yourself, your skills may stagnate.
6. Stagnate in negativity, and you'll find it hard to move forward.
7. The water in the abandoned well began to stagnate.
8. When conflicts remain unresolved, relationships can stagnate.
9. Stagnate in your routines, and life becomes monotonous.
10. Without innovation, industries can stagnate.
11. The economy's growth rate started to stagnate.
12. Stagnate in fear, and you'll miss out on opportunities.
13. The economy began to stagnate during the recession.
14. Without innovation, businesses can stagnate and lose relevance.
15. His career seemed to stagnate after years in the same role.
16. Lack of investment can cause a company to stagnate.
17. The river's water quality started to stagnate due to pollution.
18. When learning stops, knowledge can stagnate.
19. A stagnant pond can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
20. The project's progress began to stagnate due to funding issues.
21. Without new ideas, creativity can stagnate.
22. Political infighting can cause a government to stagnate.
23. A lack of new opportunities can make a job market stagnate.
24. Personal growth can stagnate without continuous self-improvement.