Differences between pull down and put down
Pull down usually means to demolish or destroy a building or structure, whereas put down generally means to criticize or belittle someone or something.
Meanings and Definitions: pull down vs put down
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Pull down
- 1Demolish.
They PULLED the old cinema DOWN to build a new shopping mall.
- 2Make someone depressed.
Losing her job PULLED her DOWN.
- 3Earn.
He's PULLING DOWN a fortune.
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: pull down, put down in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
pull down
Example
The city decided to pull down the abandoned factory.
Example
She pulls down the old posters from her wall.
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 Pull down
bring down
To cause the downfall or destruction of something or someone.
Example
The scandal brought down the politician's career and reputation.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Put down
To express disapproval or negative opinions about someone or something.
Example
She always criticizes her coworkers behind their backs and creates a toxic work environment.
To make someone or something seem unimportant or inferior.
Example
He always belittles his wife's achievements and makes her feel inadequate.
To speak negatively or disrespectfully about someone or something.
Example
The movie critic disparaged the new blockbuster film and called it a waste of time and money.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “pull”
Phrasal Verbs with “put”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in pull down vs put down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: pull down or put down?
In daily conversation, people use put down more often than pull down. This is because put down is used for expressing negative opinions or judgments about people or things, which is common in everyday interactions. Pull down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about demolishing or destroying something. So, while both phrases are used, put down is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of pull down and put down
Pull 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 pull down and put down
The tone of pull down and put down can differ based on context. Pull down often carries a serious or urgent tone when related to demolishing or destroying a building or structure, while put down typically has a negative or critical tone, especially when referring to criticizing someone or something.
