Differences between calm down and quieten down
Calm down and quieten down both mean to become less agitated or excited, but calm down is more commonly used to refer to reducing one's own emotional state, while quieten down is more often used to refer to reducing the noise level of a group or environment.
Meanings and Definitions: calm down vs quieten down
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Calm down
- 1Stop being angry or emotionally excited.
When I lose my temper, it takes ages for me to CALM DOWN again.
Quieten down
- 1Fall silent.
The audience QUIETENED DOWN when the lights were switched off in the auditorium and the play was ready to begin.
Usage Examples: calm down, quieten down in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
calm down
Example
Please calm down and tell me what happened.
Example
She usually calms down after a few minutes of deep breathing.
quieten down
Example
The children need to quieten down before bedtime.
Example
The dog quietens down when its owner comes home.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Calm down
To become less tense or anxious.
Example
After a long day at work, she likes to relax by taking a warm bath.
chill out
To become less tense or stressed.
Example
When she's feeling overwhelmed, she likes to chill out by listening to music.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Quieten down
hush
To make someone be quiet or stop talking.
Example
The librarian asked the students to hush so that others could study in peace.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in calm down vs quieten down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: calm down or quieten down?
In everyday conversation, calm down is more common than quieten down. This is because calm down can be used in a wider range of situations, such as when someone is upset or angry, while quieten down is more specific to situations where there is too much noise or commotion.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of calm down and quieten down
Both calm down and quieten down are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday conversations with friends and family. However, if you want to convey a more formal tone, you could use alternative expressions such as 'relax' or 'settle down'.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of calm down and quieten down
The tone of calm down and quieten down can differ based on context. Calm down often carries a reassuring or comforting tone, while quieten down typically has a more authoritative or commanding tone.
