What are the definitions of “trickle down”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Pass benefits from economic expansion through the economy to the less fortunate.
Despite the economic boom, few benefits have TRICKLED DOWN to the poor.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “trickle down”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb trickle down is to pass benefits from economic expansion through the economy to the less fortunate. It is often used to describe the idea that if the wealthy become wealthier, their increased wealth will eventually benefit everyone in society.
What are the different verb forms of “trickle down”?
| Root Verb | trickle down |
| Third Person Singular Present | trickles down |
| Present Participle | trickling down |
| Simple Past | trickled down |
| Past Participle | trickled down |
Example
The benefits of the new policy are expected to trickle down to the lower-income groups.
Example
The wealth trickles down to the less fortunate over time.
Example
The benefits are slowly trickling down to the people who need them most.
Example
The economic growth trickled down to the lower-income families.
Example
The benefits have trickled down to the less fortunate over the years.
What kind of phrasal verb is “trickle 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
“trickle 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 benefits of the new policy trickled down to the lower-income groups.
Example
The wealth trickles down to the less fortunate over time.
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
“trickle 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 benefits of the new policy trickled down to the lower-income groups.
Example
The wealth trickles down to the less fortunate over time.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “trickle down”?
Trickle-down economics
An economic theory that suggests tax cuts and other benefits for the wealthy will eventually benefit the entire economy.
Example
Critics argue that trickle-down economics does not work as intended and only benefits the rich.
Good things to know
Does “trickle down” have an informal or formal tone?
Trickle down is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in discussions about economics, politics, and social issues.
