Memory connection
Picture “the sub sighed”
A submarine rises beside a storm-battered pier and sighs. As the sub sighed, the waves settled and the shaking diminished.
The sound cue helps you reach the scene; the action in the scene carries you from the scene to the definition.
Use it accurately
Meaning in context
Residents returned outside after the tremors had subsided.
Her initial anger subsided once she heard the complete explanation.
Subside is intransitive: the storm, pain, swelling, or emotion itself subsides. Use abate when something can either lessen by itself or be reduced by an outside force.
Common patterns
- begin to subside
- until the pain subsides
- waters subside
Quick check
Can you retrieve the meaning?
If applause subsides, what does the audience do?
Choose an answer, then explain it in your own words.