What are the definitions of “man down”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Behave without courage or conviction.
He MANNED DOWN and didn't come with us.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “man down”?
The phrase man down is not a common phrasal verb. However, it can be used to describe someone who behaves without courage or conviction. It means that the person is not brave or determined enough to face a challenge or take action.
What are the different verb forms of “man down”?
| Root Verb | man down |
| Third Person Singular Present | mans down |
| Present Participle | manning down |
| Simple Past | manned down |
| Past Participle | manned down |
Example
He manned down and didn't come with us.
Example
She always mans down when it's time to make a decision.
Example
He is manning down instead of standing up for himself.
Example
Yesterday, they manned down and didn't confront the issue.
Example
He had manned down when he should have been assertive.
What kind of phrasal verb is “man 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
“man 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 manned down and didn't come with us.
Example
She manned down when it was time to make a decision.
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
“man 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 manned down and didn't come with us.
Example
She manned down when it was time to make a decision.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “man down”?
Man up
To behave with courage, conviction, or determination.
Example
It's time to man up and face the consequences of your actions.
Good things to know
Does “man down” have an informal or formal tone?
Man down is an informal phrase and should not be used in formal settings or professional communication. It is more appropriate for casual conversations among friends or peers.
