Differences between keep down and put down
Keep down means to control or limit something, especially negative emotions or behaviors. On the other hand, put down means to place something in a lower position or to criticize or insult someone.
Meanings and Definitions: keep down vs put down
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Keep down
- 1Not vomit.
The food was so horrible that I struggled to KEEP it DOWN.
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: keep down, put down in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
keep down
Example
I hope I can keep down this medicine; it tastes terrible.
Example
She keeps down her lunch even though she feels nauseous.
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 Keep down
suppress emotions
To prevent or reduce the expression of one's feelings or emotions.
Example
She tried to suppress her emotions and stay calm during the argument with her partner.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Put down
To express disapproval or judgment towards someone or something.
Example
She criticized her colleague's work in front of everyone, which made him feel embarrassed.
To say or do something that offends or humiliates someone.
Example
He insulted her by calling her stupid in front of their friends.
To make someone or something seem unimportant or inferior.
Example
She belittled his achievements by saying they were not that impressive.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “keep”
Phrasal Verbs with “put”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in keep down vs put down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: keep down or put down?
In daily conversation, people use put down more often than keep down. This is because put down is used for various situations such as placing objects on a surface or criticizing someone's behavior. Keep down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about controlling emotions or limiting something. So, while both phrases are used, put down is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of keep down and put down
Keep 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 keep down and put down
The tone of keep down and put down can differ based on context. Keep down often carries a serious or concerned tone when related to controlling emotions or limiting something, while put down typically has a negative or critical tone, especially when referring to criticizing or insulting someone.
