Differences between come down and hand down
Come down usually means to move from a higher place to a lower one, or to reduce in intensity, while hand down generally means to pass something on to someone else, often from an older generation to a younger one.
Meanings and Definitions: come down vs hand down
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Come down
- 1Rain.
Just look at the rain COMING DOWN! I'm not going out in that.
- 2Travel.
When you're next in London, COME DOWN and see us.
Hand down
- 1Pass on to the next generation.
The jewellery has been HANDED DOWN in my family for generations.
- 2Give a formal decision.
The court HANDED DOWN its ruling yesterday.
Usage Examples: come down, hand down in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
come down
Example
The rain started to come down heavily.
Example
When the snow comes down, the roads become slippery.
hand down
Example
My grandmother handed down her favorite recipes to my mother.
Example
He hands down his old clothes to his younger brother.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Come down
To move from a higher place to a lower one.
Example
She had to descend the stairs carefully to avoid tripping.
To make something smaller or less in amount or intensity.
Example
The store decided to reduce the prices of their products to attract more customers.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hand down
To leave something to someone in a will or testament.
Example
Her father bequeathed his antique watch to her as a family heirloom.
To give someone the responsibility of taking care of something valuable or important.
Example
The company entrusted the new project to their most experienced team member to ensure its success.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “come”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in come down vs hand down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: come down or hand down?
In daily conversation, people use come down more often than hand down. This is because come down is used for more common situations such as descending stairs or reducing prices. Hand down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about passing something on to someone else. So, while both phrases are used, come down is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of come down and hand down
Come down and hand 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 come down and hand down
The tone of come down and hand down can differ based on context. Come down often carries a casual or neutral tone when related to movement or reduction, while hand down typically has a sentimental or respectful tone, especially when referring to passing on traditions or heirlooms.
