Differences between come down and let down
Come down usually means to move from a higher place to a lower one or to descend, whereas let down generally means to disappoint someone by not fulfilling their expectations or promises.
Meanings and Definitions: come down vs let 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.
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: come down, let 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.
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 Come down
To move from a higher place to a lower one.
Example
The hikers had to descend the steep mountain before it got dark.
To move downward due to gravity or loss of support.
Example
The leaves fell from the tree during autumn.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Let down
To fail to meet someone's expectations or hopes.
Example
I was disappointed when my favorite band canceled their concert.
To not succeed in achieving a goal or meeting a standard.
Example
He failed the exam because he didn't study enough.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “come”
Differences in come down vs let down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: come down or let down?
In daily conversation, people use let down more often than come down. This is because let down is used for situations where someone has failed to meet expectations or has disappointed someone else. Come down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about movement or descent. So, while both phrases are used, let down is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of come down and let down
Come 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 come down and let down
The tone of come down and let down can differ based on context. Come down often carries a neutral or descriptive tone when related to movement or descent, while let down typically has a negative and disappointed tone, especially when referring to unfulfilled expectations or broken promises.
