What are the definitions of “tone down”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Make something sound more moderate.
The Minister tried to TONE DOWN what she had said when the press started attacking her.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “tone down”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb tone down is to make something less intense, extreme, or harsh. It is often used when talking about language, colors, or emotions. For example, it can mean making a statement more moderate, reducing the brightness of a color, or calming down strong feelings.
What are the different verb forms of “tone down”?
| Root Verb | tone down |
| Third Person Singular Present | tones down |
| Present Participle | toning down |
| Simple Past | toned down |
| Past Participle | toned down |
Example
She decided to tone down her makeup for the job interview.
Example
He tones down his language when speaking to children.
Example
They are toning down the colors in the room to create a more relaxing atmosphere.
Example
The director toned down the violence in the movie to avoid an R rating.
Example
The controversial statements were toned down in the final draft of the speech.
What kind of phrasal verb is “tone 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
“tone 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 toned down her language to avoid offending anyone.
Example
The artist toned the colors down in the painting to create a more subtle effect.
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
“tone 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 toned down her language to avoid offending anyone.
Example
The artist toned the colors down in the painting to create a more subtle effect.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “tone down”?
To calm down or reduce the level of excitement or enthusiasm.
Example
The coach asked the team to tone down their excitement and focus on the game.
Good things to know
Does “tone down” have an informal or formal tone?
Tone 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.
