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Phrasal verbs "hose down" vs "stand down"

Differences between hose down and stand down

Hose down means to spray water on something or someone, usually to clean or cool them off. On the other hand, stand down means to withdraw from a position or situation, often in response to an order or request.

Meanings and Definitions: hose down vs stand down

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Hose down

  • 1Use a hose to wet, clean or wash something.

    They HOSED the patio DOWN.

  • 2Invest heavily in or throw a lot of money at something.

    They have HOSED DOWN an obscure start - up up with capital.

Stand down

  • 1Leave a job or position so that someone else can take it.

    The minister announced her intention to STAND DOWN at the next election.

  • 2Finish being asked questions in a court.

    The judge told the witness to STAND DOWN after the questioning.

Usage Examples: hose down, stand down in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

hose down

Example

I need to hose down the driveway after mowing the lawn.

Example

She hoses down the garden path every week.

stand down

Example

The general decided to stand down after many years of service.

Example

The CEO stands down next month, and a new leader will take over.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hose down

spray with water

To wet or dampen something or someone with a stream of water.

Example

She sprayed the flowers with water to keep them fresh and healthy.

rinse off

To wash or clean something by spraying or pouring water over it.

Example

After playing in the mud, he had to rinse off his clothes and shoes before going inside.

cool off

To lower one's body temperature or reduce heat by using water or air conditioning.

Example

On a hot summer day, she likes to cool off by taking a cold shower or swimming in the pool.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Stand down

withdraw

To remove oneself or something from a position or situation.

Example

After the scandal, he decided to withdraw from the public eye and focus on his personal life.

step down

To resign or relinquish a position of power or authority.

Example

The CEO announced that he would step down from his position at the end of the year.

back off

To retreat or move away from a confrontation or conflict.

Example

When the dog started barking, she had to back off and give it some space to calm down.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Differences in hose down vs stand down: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: hose down or stand down?

In daily conversation, people use hose down more often than stand down. This is because hose down is used for more practical tasks such as cleaning cars, watering plants, or cooling off on a hot day. Stand down is not used as much in everyday conversation, but it's more common in military or political contexts where orders and commands are given.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hose down and stand down

Hose down and stand down are both informal phrases often used in casual conversations. However, stand down can also be used in formal settings like military or political speeches to convey a sense of authority or command.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of hose down and stand down

The tone of hose down and stand down can differ based on context. Hose down typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to cleaning or cooling off. In contrast, stand down often carries a serious or urgent tone, especially when related to military or political situations.

hose down & stand down: Synonyms and Antonyms

Stand down

Antonyms

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