A downturn is a period when things get worse, especially in business or the economy. When a company experiences a downturn, its sales might drop and it might need to cut costs. When the economy goes through a downturn, unemployment rises, businesses struggle, and people have less money to spend.

The word suggests a temporary decline, not a permanent disaster. Just as roads have slopes that go downward before climbing again, an economic downturn eventually gives way to recovery. A restaurant might face a downturn during slow winter months but bounce back in spring. A student's grades might take a downturn during a difficult unit but improve with extra study.

People also use downturn for things beyond economics. A sports team might experience a downturn in performance after losing key players. A friendship might go through a downturn when disagreements create distance between people.

The opposite of a downturn is an upturn, when things improve. Business owners often prepare for downturns by saving money during good times.