Regress Meaning in English
word
Definition
To go back to a previous, often less developed or worse state. Often used to describe losing progress or development.
Usage & Nuances
'Regress' is more formal and often used in academic, medical, and technical contexts (e.g., 'regress to childhood', 'the disease regressed'). It's not used for physical movement—use 'go back' or 'return' for locations. Negative connotation, suggesting loss or worsening.
Example Sentences
If you stop practicing, your skills may regress.
basic
Children may regress when they are under stress.
basic
The patient's symptoms regress after treatment.
basic
After making good progress, the project started to regress because of budget cuts.
natural
Sometimes, when people are anxious, they regress to old habits.
natural
Let’s make sure we don’t regress to our previous mistakes.
natural