Synonyms of step-down

step-down

noun

ˈstep-ˌdau̇n 

as in reduction

the amount by which something is lessened

took a huge step-down in income when she switched from a law career to one in social work

Synonyms & Similar Words

• reduction
• decrease
• drop
• decline
• dent
• diminution
• depletion
• decrement
• loss
• shrinkage
• depression
• abatement
• falloff
• drop-off
• diminishment
• slump
• fall
• subtraction
• deduction
• cutback
• downturn
• curtailment
• cut
• retrenchment
• slip
• shortening

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• increase
• gain
• increment
• addition
• enlargement
• rise
• boost
• raise
• step-up
• accumulation
• supplement
• extension
• accrual
• accretion
• continuation
• uptick
• upturn
• upswing
• uptrend

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of step-down

The step-down hearing held on February 28, 2025, was the fourth attempt to step my client down from the state hospital and my second attempt as his counsel. — Schnelle Tonge, Sun Sentinel, 16 July 2026

The result is a stretch of below-average temperatures across much of the eastern two-thirds of the country, with a noticeable step-down in conditions compared to earlier in the week. — Brandi D. Addison, USA Today, 30 Apr. 2026

That means testifying before legislative committees, meeting with DHHS leadership, and advocating for sustained funding—not one-time fixes—for mental health beds, crisis stabilization units, and step-down facilities. — Charlotte Observer, 20 Feb. 2026

Some of the incumbent step-downs were due to the pursuit of a new job; in other cases, fresh initiatives dictated change. — Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 16 Feb. 2026