What are the definitions of “pin down”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Get a fixed idea, opinion, etc, from someone..
I've asked him to set a date, but he's a hard man to PIN DOWN and won't give a definite answer.
- 2Discover exact details about something.
The government can't PIN DOWN where the leak came from.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “pin down”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb pin down is to get a clear and definite answer or commitment from someone, or to determine specific details about something. It is often used when someone is trying to avoid giving a direct answer or when information is difficult to obtain.
What are the different verb forms of “pin down”?
| Root Verb | pin down |
| Third Person Singular Present | pins down |
| Present Participle | pinning down |
| Simple Past | pinned down |
| Past Participle | pinned down |
Example
It's difficult to pin down the exact cause of the problem.
Example
She pins down the details of the project before starting.
Example
He is pinning down the best time for the meeting.
Example
They pinned down the source of the issue last week.
Example
The facts have been pinned down after thorough research.
What kind of phrasal verb is “pin 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
“pin 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
She pinned down the exact time of the event.
Example
He pinned the cause down after extensive investigation.
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
“pin 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
She pinned down the exact time of the event.
Example
He pinned the cause down after extensive investigation.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “pin down”?
Good things to know
Does “pin down” have an informal or formal tone?
Pin down is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
