Differences between melt down and shut down

Melt down usually means to become liquid as a result of heating, while shut down generally means to turn off or stop the operation of a machine, system, or organization.

Meanings and Definitions: melt down vs shut down

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Melt down

1Heat something solid, especially metal, until it becomes liquid.
They MELTED the gold statue DOWN and turned it into gold bars.

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: melt down, shut down in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

melt down

Example

The blacksmith melts down the iron to create new tools.

Example

He melts down the old jewelry to make a new ring.

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 Melt down

liquefy

To make or become liquid by heating or pressure.

Example

The chocolate started to liquefy in the sun, so she put it in the fridge to harden.

dissolve

To become or cause to become incorporated into a liquid so as to form a solution.

Example

She stirred the sugar until it dissolved completely in the tea.

thaw out

To become or cause to become unfrozen or less frozen.

Example

She left the chicken to thaw out overnight in the fridge before cooking it.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Shut down

turn off

To stop the operation of a machine, device, or system by pressing a button or switch.

Example

He always remembers to turn off the lights before leaving the room to save energy.

close down

To cease operations or business activity, usually permanently.

Example

The restaurant had to close down due to financial difficulties caused by the pandemic.

power down

To shut off or reduce the power supply to a device or system.

Example

The IT department reminded employees to power down their computers every night to save electricity.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “melt”

melt away

Phrasal Verbs with “shut”

Phrasal Verbs with “down”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: melt down or shut down?

In daily conversation, people use shut down more often than melt down. This is because shut down is used for more routine tasks such as turning off electronic devices or closing a business. Melt down is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about melting metals or nuclear reactors. So, while both phrases are used, shut down is more common in everyday conversation.

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

Melt 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 melt down and shut down

The tone of melt down and shut down can differ based on context. Melt down often carries a serious or alarming tone when related to nuclear reactors or metalworking, while shut down typically has a practical and straightforward tone, especially when referring to turning off machines or systems.

melt down & shut down: Synonyms and Antonyms

Melt down

Synonyms

Antonyms

Shut down

Synonyms

Antonyms