Differences between come down and put down
Come down usually means to move from a higher place to a lower one, or to reduce the intensity of something, whereas put down generally means to place something in a specific location or to criticize someone or something.
Meanings and Definitions: come down vs put 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.
Put down
- 1Kill an animal because it's old, ill, etc..
He had his dog PUT DOWN because it was in a lot of pain from its tumours.
- 2Stop holding ( but withdraw support gently ).
PUT the gun DOWN slowly and keep your hands where I can see them.
Usage Examples: come down, put 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.
put down
Example
Please put down your bags on the floor.
Example
She puts down her phone when she's talking to someone.
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 trail carefully.
To make something smaller or less in size, amount, or intensity.
Example
The company decided to reduce the number of employees to cut costs.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Put down
To put something in a specific location.
Example
She placed the book on the shelf and went to bed.
To express disapproval or negative comments about someone or something.
Example
He criticized the new policy for being too strict and inflexible.
To belittle or speak negatively about someone or something.
Example
She disparaged his work, saying it was mediocre and unoriginal.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “come”
Phrasal Verbs with “put”
Differences in come down vs put down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: come down or put down?
In daily conversation, people use put down more often than come down. This is because put down is used for more daily tasks and routines such as placing objects or expressing disapproval. Come down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about descending from a higher place. So, while both phrases are used, put down is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of come down and put down
Come down and put 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 put down
The tone of come down and put down can differ based on context. Come down often carries a neutral or calm tone when related to descending or reducing intensity, while put down typically has a negative or critical tone, especially when referring to criticizing someone or something.