What are the definitions of “lock down”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Make very secure.
If you lock down your computer properly, it is very difficult for people to access it.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “lock down”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb lock down is to make something very secure, such as a computer or a building. It means to take measures to prevent unauthorized access or movement.
What are the different verb forms of “lock down”?
| Root Verb | lock down |
| Third Person Singular Present | locks down |
| Present Participle | locking down |
| Simple Past | locked down |
| Past Participle | locked down |
Example
The school decided to lock down the campus after receiving a threat.
Example
She locks down her computer every night before leaving the office.
Example
The security team is locking down the building due to the emergency.
Example
The company locked down all its systems after the cyber attack.
Example
The area was locked down after the incident occurred.
What kind of phrasal verb is “lock 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
“lock 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 school locked down the campus for safety reasons.
Example
She locked her computer down to prevent unauthorized access.
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
“lock 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 school locked down the campus for safety reasons.
Example
She locked her computer down to prevent unauthorized access.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “lock down”?
Lockdown
A state of isolation or restricted access, often used in the context of a pandemic or security threat.
Example
The city went into lockdown to slow the spread of the virus.
Lockdown drill
A practice exercise to prepare for an emergency situation, such as an active shooter or a natural disaster.
Example
The school conducted a lockdown drill to ensure students and staff knew what to do in case of an emergency.
Lockdown measures
Actions taken by authorities to restrict movement and activities during an emergency, such as a pandemic.
Example
The government implemented strict lockdown measures to control the outbreak.
Good things to know
Does “lock down” have an informal or formal tone?
Lock down is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, news reports, and official communications.
