What are the definitions of “boil down to”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Amount to.
It all BOILS DOWN TO money at the end of the day.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “boil down to”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb boil down to is to amount to or to be the main point or reason for something. It is often used to simplify a complex situation or to emphasize the most important aspect of a situation.
What are the different verb forms of “boil down to”?
| Root Verb | boil down to |
| Third Person Singular Present | boils down to |
| Present Participle | boiling down to |
| Simple Past | boiled down to |
| Past Participle | boiled down to |
Example
In the end, the decision boils down to what is best for the company.
Example
Her choice boils down to two options: accept the job or continue studying.
Example
The issue is boiling down to a matter of trust between the two parties.
Example
The argument boiled down to a disagreement about priorities.
Example
The main factors in their decision boiled down to cost and location.
What kind of phrasal verb is “boil down to”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“boil down to” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The problem boils down to a lack of communication.
Example
The decision boiled down to choosing between quality and price.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“boil down to” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The problem boils down to a lack of communication.
Example
The decision boiled down to choosing between quality and price.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “boil down to”?
Good things to know
Does “boil down to” have an informal or formal tone?
Boil down to is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings such as business meetings, academic discussions, or written reports.
