What are the definitions of “shut down”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Close a business, shop, etc..
The shop SHUT DOWN when the out - of town supermarket opened.
- 2Turn a computer off.
You should close all programs before you SHUT a computer DOWN.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “shut down”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb shut down is to stop the operation of something, such as a machine, computer, or business. It can refer to turning off a computer or closing a business permanently.
What are the different verb forms of “shut down”?
| Root Verb | shut down |
| Third Person Singular Present | shuts down |
| Present Participle | shutting down |
| Simple Past | shut down |
| Past Participle | shut down |
Example
The factory will shut down for maintenance next week.
Example
The computer shuts down automatically after a period of inactivity.
Example
They are shutting down the old store to open a new one in a better location.
Example
The government shut down the illegal operation.
Example
The business was shut down due to financial problems.
What kind of phrasal verb is “shut 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
“shut 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 manager shut down the store for the day.
Example
She shut her computer down before leaving the office.
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
“shut 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 manager shut down the store for the day.
Example
She shut her computer down before leaving the office.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “shut down”?
A situation in which the government temporarily stops providing non-essential services due to a lack of funding.
Example
The government shutdown lasted for several weeks, causing delays in many services.
Good things to know
Does “shut down” have an informal or formal tone?
Shut 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 business meetings or official documents.
