Flagging

Flagging describes a decline in energy, strength, enthusiasm, or effectiveness. It signifies a noticeable weakening or reduction in a desirable quality. The term can be applied to a wide array of situations, from a person's physical condition to the performance of a business or the intensity of an emotion. It often implies a loss of momentum, indicating that something is beginning to falter or fail to sustain its previous level of operation. It's a dynamic term, highlighting the process of decline rather than a static state of weakness. The context often clarifies the specific area experiencing the downturn.

Flagging meaning with examples

• After hours of hiking, the group's energy levels began to show signs of flagging. They slowed their pace, took more frequent breaks, and their conversation became less animated. Despite the beautiful scenery, their initial excitement waned. The weight of their packs and the distance traveled were starting to take their toll, indicating a decrease in their physical stamina and drive to continue.
• The company's sales were flagging in the fourth quarter, a clear signal to the CEO that something needed to change. The initial momentum from their successful product launch began to wane as competitors entered the market and customer interest slowed. The downturn in performance worried investors, prompting the need to implement a new marketing strategy to revitalize the company's sales.
• The detective noticed the suspect's attention was flagging during the interrogation. He started to fidget, avoided eye contact, and his answers became less forthcoming. The initial resistance to providing information weakened. This shift signaled the suspect's mental fatigue and suggested that they were growing tired of the line of questioning, revealing their weakness.
• The enthusiasm for the community project began flagging after the initial burst of volunteers. As the project progressed, the initial energy dwindled. Fewer people showed up for meetings and the level of commitment lowered as people's resolve lessened. The organizers needed to reinvigorate the community's interest to ensure the project's completion, to stop the project from failing.