In the 1820s economic activity in Tunisia took a steep downturn.

Does this mean the music industry is on its way back to good health after a steep downturn?

Nearly every major appliance maker is suffering a steep downturn.

Network television is in a steep downturn that has led to forecasts of reduced profits and possible layoffs.

The liquidity picture could become even worse if individual investors abandon the market in a steep downturn.

But several executives noted that in 2001 some reality shows suffered steep downturns in ratings after Sept. 11.

The deal comes at a time when European auto makers are scrambling to survive the steepest downturn they have suffered in decades.

A steep downturn in the market could leave individual investors feeling poorer and cause them to rein in their spending.

"Add to that the current steep downturn in the book market, and we have more than enough to discuss."

And a steep downturn in the stock market could force the state to make larger contributions to the fund to keep it on track.