Differences between put down and put over
Put down usually means to place something on a surface or to criticize someone or something harshly, whereas put over generally means to communicate an idea or message effectively.
Meanings and Definitions: put down vs put over
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 over
- 1Successfully execute ( a scam, trick, etc. ).
They PUT OVER a clever practical joke on us.
Usage Examples: put down, put over 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 over
Example
The magician put over an amazing trick on the audience.
Example
She puts over a clever prank on her friends.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Put down
To criticize or belittle someone or something in a derogatory manner.
Example
She always disparages his ideas during meetings, which makes him feel discouraged.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Put over
To express or communicate an idea or feeling through words, actions, or art.
Example
The painting conveys a sense of peace and tranquility through its colors and composition.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “put”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Phrasal Verbs with “over”
- double over
- hand over
- mess over
- steal over
- freeze over
Differences in put down vs put over: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: put down or put over?
In daily conversation, people use put down more often than put over. This is because put down is used for more daily tasks and routines such as placing objects on surfaces or writing things down. Put over is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about communicating ideas or messages. So, while both phrases are used, put down is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of put down and put over
Put down and put over 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 put down and put over
The tone of put down and put over can differ based on context. Put down often carries a negative or critical tone when related to criticizing someone or something, while put over typically has a positive and persuasive tone, especially when referring to communicating an idea or message effectively.