In Germany this winter, the governing Christian Democrats proposed steep rate cuts to try to balance the market.

VOA: standard.2010.03.23

Some 3,600 firefighters are attacking the flames in steep terrain, using bulldozers, tractors and hand tools.

VOA: standard.2009.09.01

"Both reports are very stark reminders of the steep recession that we find ourselves in.

VOA: standard.2009.08.25

So, the steep fall in vandalism correlates with a steep rise in the use of social media.

BBC: The vandals are in their bedrooms

Retailers were burned in 2008 when consumer demand dropped sharply after holiday inventory orders were placed, resulting in steep pricing discounts in order to move merchandise.

FORBES: Retail inventories increase amid modest holiday sales views

Times Co. began trying to sell its stake in the Red Sox and related properties in late 2008 when steep declines in revenue at its core newspaper business were threatening the company's ability to manage its debt.

WSJ: Times Co. Sells Part of Stake in Red Sox