Differences between fall down and put down
Fall down means to drop or collapse to the ground, while put down means to place something on a surface or to criticize someone or something.
Meanings and Definitions: fall down vs put down
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Fall down
- 1Fall on the ground.
I slipped on the ice and FELL DOWN.
- 2Have a weak point.
The argument FALLS DOWN when you look at how much it'll cost.
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: fall down, put down in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
fall down
Example
Be careful not to fall down on the slippery floor.
Example
She often falls down while playing soccer.
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 Fall down
To fall suddenly and clumsily.
Example
She tumbled down the stairs and twisted her ankle.
take a spill
To fall or tumble to the ground, usually in an unexpected or embarrassing way.
Example
She took a spill while roller skating and scraped her knee.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Put down
To put or set something in a particular position or location.
Example
He placed the book on the shelf and turned off the light.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “fall”
Phrasal Verbs with “put”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in fall down vs put down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: fall down or put down?
In daily conversation, people use put down more often than fall down. This is because put down is used for more daily tasks and routines such as placing objects or expressing criticism. Fall down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about accidents or physical movements. So, while both phrases are used, put down is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of fall down and put down
Fall 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 fall down and put down
The tone of fall down and put down can differ based on context. Fall down often carries a surprised or concerned tone when related to accidents or unexpected events, while put down typically has a critical or dismissive tone, especially when referring to people or ideas.