Differences between bring down and let down

Bring down means to cause something or someone to fall or be reduced in status, while let down means to disappoint or fail to meet someone's expectations.

Meanings and Definitions: bring down vs let down

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Bring down

1Make a government fall.
The vote of no - confidence BROUGHT the government DOWN.
2Make something cheaper.
The improvements in technology have BROUGHT the prices of computers DOWN considerably in recent months.

Let down

1Disappoint, fail to keep an arrangement.
She failed to turn up and I felt badly LET DOWN.
2Make clothes longer.
He's grown so much, we'll have to LET his trousers DOWN.

Usage Examples: bring down, let down in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

bring down

Example

The scandal could bring down the entire company.

Example

She brings down the house with her amazing singing.

let down

Example

I don't want to let down my team by not showing up for practice.

Example

She always lets down her friends when they need her the most.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Bring down

knock down

To cause something or someone to fall to the ground.

Example

The strong wind knocked down several trees in the park.

lower the boom

To punish or reprimand someone severely.

Example

The boss lowered the boom on the employee who had been caught stealing office supplies.

take down a peg

To humble or reduce someone's arrogance or pride.

Example

After his rude behavior at the party, his friends decided to take him down a peg and remind him of his place.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Let down

fall short

To fail to meet expectations or standards.

Example

The team fell short of their goal to win the championship, but they were proud of their progress.

disappoint

To fail to fulfill someone's hopes or expectations.

Example

I was disappointed that my favorite restaurant was closed when I arrived.

fail to deliver

To not provide what was promised or expected.

Example

The company failed to deliver the product on time, causing frustration for the customers.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “bring”

Phrasal Verbs with “let”

Phrasal Verbs with “down”

Differences in bring down vs let down: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: bring down or let down?

In daily conversation, people use let down more often than bring down. This is because let down is used to express disappointment or failure, which is a common experience. Bring down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about causing something or someone to fall or be reduced in status. So, while both phrases are used, let down is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of bring down and let down

Bring down and let down are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of bring down and let down

The tone of bring down and let down can differ based on context. Bring down often carries a negative or destructive tone when related to causing something or someone to fall or be reduced in status, while let down typically has a disappointed or regretful tone, especially when referring to failing to meet someone's expectations.

bring down & let down: Synonyms and Antonyms

Bring down

Synonyms

Antonyms

Let down

Synonyms

Antonyms