Differences between calm down and tone down
Calm down means to become less agitated or upset, while tone down means to make something less intense or forceful.
Meanings and Definitions: calm down vs tone 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.
Tone down
- 1Make something sound more moderate.
The Minister tried to TONE DOWN what she had said when the press started attacking her.
Usage Examples: calm down, tone 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.
tone down
Example
She decided to tone down her makeup for the job interview.
Example
He tones down his language when speaking to children.
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 calm down or relax, especially in response to stress or anger.
Example
He needs to chill out and not take everything so seriously.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tone down
To make something less extreme or intense.
Example
The speaker needs to moderate their language to avoid offending the audience.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in calm down vs tone down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: calm down or tone down?
Both calm down and tone down are commonly used in everyday conversation, but calm down is more frequent. It's a common phrase used to soothe someone who is upset or angry. On the other hand, tone down is used less frequently and is often used in specific contexts such as public speaking or writing.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of calm down and tone down
Calm down and tone down are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations with friends and family. However, tone down can be used in more formal settings such as business or academic contexts when discussing the intensity of language or behavior.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of calm down and tone down
The tone of calm down is usually soothing and empathetic, while tone down has a more objective and neutral tone. Calm down is often used to comfort someone who is upset, while tone down is used to suggest that someone should reduce the intensity of their language or behavior.