Phrasal verbs "get down" vs "shut down"

Differences between get down and shut down

Get down usually means to lower oneself to the ground or to start doing something seriously, while shut down generally means to close something completely or to stop it from functioning.

Meanings and Definitions: get down vs shut down

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Get down

  • 1Make someone depressed, unhappy, exhausted, etc..

    The miserable weather in winter really GETS me DOWN.

  • 2Write, record.

    I couldn't GET DOWN everything he said.

  • 3Manage to swallow.

    The medicine tasted horrible and it was difficult to GET it DOWN.

  • 4Descend, leave a vehicle.

    The trained pulled in and we GOT DOWN.

  • 5Leave the table after eating.

    When they had finished dinner, the children asked if they could GET DOWN.

  • 6Reduce.

    The doctor says I my GET my cholesterol levels DOWN.

  • 7Have an affair or sexual relations.

    They GOT DOWN at the party last week.

Shut down

  • 1Close a business, shop, etc..

    The shop SHUT DOWN when the out - of town supermarket opened.

  • 2Turn a computer off.

    You should close all programs before you SHUT a computer DOWN.

Usage Examples: get down, shut down in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

get down

Example

She needs to get down from the tree before she falls.

Example

He gets down from the ladder carefully.

shut down

Example

The factory will shut down for maintenance next week.

Example

The computer shuts down automatically after a period of inactivity.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Get down

To start working on something seriously or diligently.

Example

We need to get to work on this project if we want to meet the deadline.

To start working on something with determination or enthusiasm.

Example

She dug in and started writing her novel, determined to finish it by the end of the month.

To start working on something seriously or with great effort.

Example

He knew he had to buckle down and study hard if he wanted to pass the exam.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Shut down

To close a business or store for the day or permanently.

Example

After 20 years of running the bookstore, they decided to close up shop and retire.

cease operations

To stop or discontinue a business or organization's activities.

Example

The company had to cease operations due to financial difficulties.

To stop or switch off a machine or electronic device.

Example

Don't forget to turn off the lights before leaving the room.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “shut”

Differences in get down vs shut down: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: get down or shut down?

In daily conversation, people use shut down more often than get down. This is because shut down is used for more common situations such as closing a store or turning off a computer. Get down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about dancing or starting to work on something seriously. So, while both phrases are used, shut down is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of get down and shut down

Get down and shut 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 get down and shut down

The tone of get down and shut down can differ based on context. Get down often carries an enthusiastic or energetic tone when related to dancing or starting to work, while shut down typically has a serious or final tone, especially when referring to closing a business or ending a project.

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