What are the definitions of “fall down”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Fall on the ground.
I slipped on the ice and FELL DOWN.
- 2Have a weak point.
The argument FALLS DOWN when you look at how much it'll cost.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “fall down”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fall down is to lose one's balance and fall to the ground. This can happen due to various reasons, such as slipping on a wet surface, tripping over an object, or losing balance while walking or running.
What are the different verb forms of “fall down”?
| Root Verb | fall down |
| Third Person Singular Present | falls down |
| Present Participle | falling down |
| Simple Past | fell down |
| Past Participle | fallen down |
Example
Be careful not to fall down on the slippery floor.
Example
She often falls down while playing soccer.
Example
He is falling down the stairs because he missed a step.
Example
Yesterday, the child fell down while running in the park.
Example
The old tree had fallen down during the storm.
What kind of phrasal verb is “fall 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.)
Intransitive verb
“fall down” 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
He fell down on the ice.
Example
The baby fell down while learning to walk.
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
“fall 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
He fell down on the ice.
Example
The baby fell down while learning to walk.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “fall down”?
Good things to know
Does “fall down” have an informal or formal tone?
Fall down is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, depending on the specific context.
