What are the definitions of “simmer down”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Become calmer, make less noise.
He told them to SIMMER DOWN because they were disturbing the class next door.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “simmer down”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb simmer down is to become calmer or quieter, especially after being noisy or excited. It is often used to tell someone to relax or stop making a lot of noise.
What are the different verb forms of “simmer down”?
| Root Verb | simmer down |
| Third Person Singular Present | simmers down |
| Present Participle | simmering down |
| Simple Past | simmered down |
| Past Participle | simmered down |
Example
The kids need to simmer down before bedtime.
Example
She simmers down after a few deep breaths.
Example
The crowd is simmering down after the exciting performance.
Example
The argument simmered down once they both had a chance to speak.
Example
The situation had simmered down by the time the police arrived.
What kind of phrasal verb is “simmer 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
“simmer 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
The noise simmered down as the party ended.
Example
After a long day, she finally simmered down and relaxed.
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
“simmer 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 noise simmered down as the party ended.
Example
After a long day, she finally simmered down and relaxed.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “simmer down”?
Good things to know
Does “simmer down” have an informal or formal tone?
Simmer down is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations or everyday speech. In more formal settings, it is better to use alternatives such as 'calm down' or 'quiet down'.
