Differences between put down and put on
The main difference between put down and put on is that put down means to place something on a surface or to criticize someone harshly, while put on means to wear clothing or accessories or to pretend or fake something.
Meanings and Definitions: put down vs put on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Put on
- 1Get fat.
He's PUT ON a lot of weight since he gave up smoking.
- 2Deceive, lie.
I am not PUTTING you ON.
- 3Start wearing.
I PUT my coat ON before we went out.
Usage Examples: put down, put on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
put down
Example
Please put down your bags on the floor.
Example
She puts down her phone when she's talking to someone.
put on
Example
Before leaving the house, she put on her jacket.
Example
He puts on his shoes before going for a walk.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Put down
To express disapproval or judgment about someone or something.
Example
She always criticizes her coworkers behind their backs.
To belittle or speak negatively about someone or something.
Example
He tends to disparage his opponents during political debates.
To express strong disapproval or censure towards someone or something.
Example
The government condemned the terrorist attack and promised to take action against the perpetrators.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Put on
To have clothing or accessories on one's body.
Example
She likes to wear bright colors to work to boost her mood.
To wear or display something proudly or confidently.
Example
He likes to sport his favorite team's jersey during game days.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “put”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in put down vs put on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: put down or put on?
In everyday conversation, people use put on more often than put down. This is because put on is used for daily routines such as getting dressed or wearing makeup. Put down is not used as much in daily conversation, but it is still a common phrase used to criticize someone or something.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of put down and put on
Put down and put on are both 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 put down and put on
The tone of put down and put on can differ based on context. Put down often carries a negative or critical tone when related to criticizing someone or something, while put on typically has a neutral or positive tone, especially when referring to wearing clothes or accessories or pretending to be something.
