What are the definitions of “bring down”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Make a government fall.
The vote of no - confidence BROUGHT the government DOWN.
- 2Make something cheaper.
The improvements in technology have BROUGHT the prices of computers DOWN considerably in recent months.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bring down”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb bring down is to cause something to fall or collapse, either physically or metaphorically. It can refer to making a government fall, reducing prices, or causing someone to feel sad or disappointed.
What are the different verb forms of “bring down”?
| Root Verb | bring down |
| Third Person Singular Present | brings down |
| Present Participle | bringing down |
| Simple Past | brought down |
| Past Participle | brought down |
Example
The scandal could bring down the entire company.
Example
She brings down the house with her amazing singing.
Example
He is bringing down the old shed in the backyard.
Example
The storm brought down several trees in the neighborhood.
Example
The prices have been brought down due to the sale.
What kind of phrasal verb is “bring down”?
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.)
Transitive verb
“bring down” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
The scandal brought down the government.
Example
The sale brought the prices down.
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
“bring down” 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 scandal brought down the government.
Example
The sale brought the prices down.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “bring down”?
Good things to know
Does “bring down” have an informal or formal tone?
Bring down 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 news reports or business discussions. The specific context and meaning of the phrasal verb will determine its level of formality.
