Differences between crack down and run down
Crack down means to take strict action against illegal or unacceptable behavior, while run down means to describe something negatively or to list the details of something in a summary.
Meanings and Definitions: crack down vs run down
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Crack down
- 1To take strong action to stop or control something.
The school is cracking down on smoking.
- 2To take strong action to stop or punish something
the first to crack down on any hint of insubordination amongst the junior officers.
Run down
- 1Hit a pedestrian with a vehicle.
The minicab RAN him DOWN on the zebra crossing.
- 2Lose energy or power.
You should only recharge the battery when it has fully RUN DOWN.
- 3Criticise, disparage.
They're always RUNNING me DOWN and I am sick and tired of it.
- 4Find the source or origin of something.
The police RAN DOWN all the leads they had and caught them.
Usage Examples: crack down, run down in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
crack down
Example
The government decided to crack down on illegal activities.
Example
The school cracks down on cheating during exams.
run down
Example
My phone battery always runs down quickly when I use it a lot.
Example
His energy runs down quickly when he doesn't get enough sleep.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Crack down
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run down
To talk about something in a negative or critical way.
Example
He always describes his job negatively, but he never quits or looks for another one.
To express disapproval or dissatisfaction with something or someone.
Example
She always criticizes her colleagues behind their backs instead of addressing the issues directly.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “crack”
- crack down on
- crack on
- crack up
Phrasal Verbs with “run”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in crack down vs run down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: crack down or run down?
In everyday conversation, run down is more common than crack down. This is because run down can be used in various contexts and situations, while crack down is more specific and often used in news or official statements.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of crack down and run down
Crack down and run down are both informal phrases. However, crack down can be used in more formal settings such as legal or political contexts, while run down is mainly used in casual conversations.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of crack down and run down
The tone of crack down is serious and authoritative, while the tone of run down is more negative or critical.
