A market decline refers to a temporary or short-term drop in asset prices. While it can be part of normal market behavior — due to news events, investor panic, or profit-taking — it does not reflect a prolonged trend. The term “bull market” actually describes the opposite of a decline: it signals an extended period of price increases. A short-term market decline can occur even during a bull market, but the key difference lies in the trend’s direction and duration. Mistaking a bull market for a decline could lead investors to sell prematurely or avoid potentially profitable opportunities. Understanding that a bull market is rooted in sustained optimism and economic growth helps investors stay confident during minor pullbacks and avoid confusing temporary dips with longer-term trends.