Differences between lay down and turn down
Lay down means to put something down in a horizontal position, while turn down means to reject or refuse an offer or request.
Meanings and Definitions: lay down vs turn down
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Lay down
- 1Establish rules or procedures.
The rules of the sport were LAID DOWN early in the nineteenth century.
- 2Kill, murder.
He got LAID DOWN in a turf war about supplying drugs.
Turn down
- 1Reduce volume, temperature, etc..
The room was too hot, so she TURNED the heating DOWN.
- 2Reject an offer, invitation, etc..
They offered her the job, but she TURNED it DOWN.
- 3Fold the top covers of a bed down to make it ready for someone to go to sleep.
The hotel staff TURNED DOWN the bed and scattered flower petals on it while we was having dinner.
Usage Examples: lay down, turn down in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
lay down
Example
The company lays down strict guidelines for employee conduct.
Example
She lays down the rules for her children to follow.
turn down
Example
Please turn down the music; it's too loud.
Example
She always turns down the heat before going to bed.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Lay down
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn down
decline
To politely refuse an offer or invitation.
Example
She had to decline the job offer because it didn't align with her career goals.
To refuse or dismiss an offer or proposal.
Example
The company had to reject the partnership proposal due to financial constraints.
Differences in lay down vs turn down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: lay down or turn down?
In daily conversation, people use turn down more often than lay down. This is because turn down is used in a variety of situations such as job offers, invitations, and requests. Lay down is less common and is mainly used when referring to physically placing something down.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of lay down and turn down
Lay down and turn down are both informal phrases that can be used in casual conversations. However, turn down can also be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts to politely decline an offer or request.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of lay down and turn down
The tone of lay down and turn down can differ based on context. Lay down typically has a neutral or descriptive tone, while turn down can have a polite or regretful tone when refusing an offer or request.