Differences between back down and turn down
Back down means to withdraw from a position or a conflict, while turn down means to reject an offer or a request.
Meanings and Definitions: back down vs turn down
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Back down
- 1Retract or withdraw your position or proposal in an argument.
She refused to BACK DOWN and was fired.
Turn down
- 1Reduce volume, temperature, etc..
The room was too hot, so she TURNED the heating DOWN.
- 2Reject an offer, invitation, etc..
They offered her the job, but she TURNED it DOWN.
- 3Fold the top covers of a bed down to make it ready for someone to go to sleep.
The hotel staff TURNED DOWN the bed and scattered flower petals on it while we was having dinner.
Usage Examples: back down, turn down in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
back down
Example
He decided to back down after realizing he was wrong.
Example
She never backs down from a challenge.
turn down
Example
Please turn down the music; it's too loud.
Example
She always turns down the heat before going to bed.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Back down
To withdraw or move back from a position or a conflict.
Example
The army was forced to retreat after facing heavy resistance from the enemy.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn down
decline
To politely refuse an offer or an invitation.
Example
She had to decline the job offer because it didn't match her career goals.
To refuse or dismiss an offer or a proposal.
Example
The publisher decided to reject the manuscript because it didn't meet their standards.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “back”
Phrasal Verbs with “turn”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in back down vs turn down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: back down or turn down?
In daily conversation, turn down is more common than back down. This is because turn down is used in various situations such as declining an invitation, rejecting a job offer, or refusing a request. On the other hand, back down is less commonly used and usually refers to situations where someone retreats from a confrontation or argument.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of back down and turn down
Back down and turn down are both informal phrases that can be used in casual conversations. However, turn down can also be used in more formal settings such as business or academic contexts when rejecting an offer or declining an invitation.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of back down and turn down
The tone of back down and turn down can differ based on context. Back down often carries a negative connotation and implies weakness or surrender, while turn down can have a neutral or polite tone depending on the situation.
