If something deteriorates, it becomes worse in some way.
例句
There are fears that the situation might deteriorate into full-scale war...人们担心形势可能恶化而演变成一场全面战争。The weather conditions are deteriorating...天气变得越来越糟。
英汉词典释义
n.
恶化,变坏;退化;堕落
a rapid deterioration in his condition他身体状况的迅速恶化a serious deterioration in relations between the two governments两国政府关系的严重恶化Mental and physical deterioration both occur naturally with age.随着年龄的增长,心智和体力自然衰退。Steps need to be taken quickly to arrest the deterioration in the countries’ relationship.需要迅速采取行动来阻止国家间关系恶化。The car’s bodywork was already showing signs of deterioration.这辆车的车身已经显示出了劣化迹象。