What are the definitions of “slow down”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Reduce speed.
The car SLOWED DOWN when they saw the police.
- 2Become less active.
It is important to slow down, rest, and eat sensibly.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “slow down”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb slow down is to reduce speed or move at a slower pace. It can be used to describe vehicles, people, or even processes that need to be done more slowly.
What are the different verb forms of “slow down”?
| Root Verb | slow down |
| Third Person Singular Present | slows down |
| Present Participle | slowing down |
| Simple Past | slowed down |
| Past Participle | slowed down |
Example
Please slow down when you're driving in a school zone.
Example
The train slows down as it approaches the station.
Example
She is slowing down her pace to enjoy the scenery.
Example
He slowed down when he saw the stop sign.
Example
The car had slowed down before it came to a complete stop.
What kind of phrasal verb is “slow 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
“slow 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 car slowed down when they saw the police.
Example
It is important to slow down, rest, and eat sensibly.
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
“slow 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 car slowed down when they saw the police.
Example
It is important to slow down, rest, and eat sensibly.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “slow down”?
Good things to know
Does “slow down” have an informal or formal tone?
Slow 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 presentations or written documents.
