What does “On the Down Low (D.L.)” mean?
"On the Down Low (D.L.)" means to do something secretly or discreetly.
What context can I use the in?
Example
They're keeping their relationship on the down low.
Example
He's been working on the down low to surprise her with a gift.
Example
She's been studying on the down low so she can ace the test
Is “On the Down Low (D.L.)” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“On the Down Low (D.L.)” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “On the Down Low (D.L.)” effectively in context?
You can use "On the Down Low (D.L.)" to describe something that is being kept secret or done discreetly. It implies that the activity or information is not meant to be widely known or openly discussed. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this phrase:
- 1Relationships
They're keeping their relationship on the down low to avoid judgment from their friends and family.
- 2Surprises
He's been working on the down low to surprise her with a gift for her birthday.
- 3Studying
She's been studying on the down low so she can ace the test without anyone knowing.
Similar phrases to “On the Down Low (D.L.)”:
Hush-hush
Kept secret or confidential
Example
The details of the operation were kept hush-hush to avoid leaks.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “On the Down Low (D.L.)” come from?
The origin of the phrase "On the Down Low (D.L.)" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in African American communities in the United States in the 1990s. It was initially used to refer to men who were secretly engaging in same-sex relationships while publicly identifying as heterosexual.
Is “On the Down Low (D.L.)” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "On the Down Low (D.L.)" is commonly used in everyday conversation, especially in informal settings. It is often used to describe secretive or discreet behavior or activities.
What tone does “On the Down Low (D.L.)” have?
"On the Down Low (D.L.)" conveys a tone of secrecy and confidentiality. It suggests that the information or activity being referred to should be kept hidden or not openly discussed.
Can “On the Down Low (D.L.)” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "On the Down Low (D.L.)" is more commonly used in informal settings and may not be appropriate for formal situations. It is often used in casual conversations among friends or acquaintances.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase "On the Down Low (D.L.)" is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'They're keeping their relationship on the down low.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Let's keep it on the down low.' to imply secrecy.
