What are the definitions of “trade down”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Sell something and replace it with something cheaper.
Their house it too large now that their children have left home, so they're going to TRADE DOWN to something smaller.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “trade down”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb trade down is to sell something and replace it with something cheaper. This often happens when people want to save money or simplify their lives. For example, someone might trade down their car for a more affordable model or sell a large house and buy a smaller one.
What are the different verb forms of “trade down”?
| Root Verb | trade down |
| Third Person Singular Present | trades down |
| Present Participle | trading down |
| Simple Past | traded down |
| Past Participle | traded down |
Example
They decided to trade down their expensive car for a more economical one.
Example
She trades down her designer clothes for more affordable options.
Example
He is trading down his luxury apartment for a smaller, more affordable place.
Example
Last year, they traded down their big house for a cozy apartment.
Example
The couple had traded down their possessions to live a minimalist lifestyle.
What kind of phrasal verb is “trade 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
“trade 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
After retiring, they decided to trade down and live more simply.
Example
Many people trade down when they want to save money.
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
“trade 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
After retiring, they decided to trade down and live more simply.
Example
Many people trade down when they want to save money.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “trade down”?
Good things to know
Does “trade down” have an informal or formal tone?
Trade 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 discussions or financial planning.
