Differences between settle down and settle up
Settle down means to calm down, relax, or establish a permanent residence. On the other hand, settle up means to pay off a debt or balance an account.
Meanings and Definitions: settle down vs settle up
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Settle down
- 1Start living a fixed and routine life.
After years of partying and drinking, she finally got married and SETTLED DOWN.
Settle up
- 1Pay a debt.
Let's SETTLE UP for the dinner the other night.
Usage Examples: settle down, settle up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
settle down
Example
After traveling the world, he decided to settle down and start a family.
Example
She settles down in her new job and enjoys the routine.
settle up
Example
We need to settle up before leaving the restaurant.
Example
She always settles up her bills on time.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Settle down
To become less tense or stressed.
Example
After a long day at work, he likes to relax by watching TV or reading a book.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Settle up
square up
To settle a debt or account by paying what is owed.
Example
After dinner, they squared up and split the bill evenly between them.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “settle”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in settle down vs settle up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: settle down or settle up?
In daily conversation, people use settle down more often than settle up. This is because settle down is used in a variety of contexts, such as telling someone to calm down or referring to someone who has decided to establish a permanent home. Settle up, on the other hand, is used less frequently and mainly in financial contexts.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of settle down and settle up
Settle down and settle up are both informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, using alternative expressions can convey a more formal tone in business or academic contexts.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of settle down and settle up
The tone of settle down and settle up can differ based on context. Settle down often carries a soothing or reassuring tone when related to calming someone down or establishing a home. In contrast, settle up typically has a more serious or urgent tone, especially when referring to paying off a debt or balancing an account.