Fixed expressions
Idioms
English fixed expressions — phrases whose meaning isn't obvious from the individual words. Each entry shows the meaning, an example sentence, and its register.
Idioms containing down, including its inflections. Clear word filter
batten down the hatches
CEFR B2to prepare yourself and your resources for an approaching difficult situation
breathe down someone's neck
CEFR B2to monitor someone so closely that they feel pressured or uncomfortable
double down
CEFR B2to increase your commitment to a position or strategy, especially after mixed results
down and out
CEFR B2in severe hardship, especially without money, resources, or prospects
down in the dumps
CEFR B2feeling sad, discouraged, or low in spirits
go down that route
CEFR B2to choose a particular method or course of action
go down the road of
CEFR B2to start following a particular course of action
lay down the law
CEFR B2to state rules firmly and make clear that they are not open to negotiation
put down roots
CEFR B2to make a permanent home in one place and build a stable life there
when the chips are down
CEFR B2at a moment of crisis when pressure forces an important choice
down at heel
CEFR C1shabby, worn, or neglected in appearance, often because of poverty
down round
CEFR C1a funding round in which a company raises money at a lower valuation than the previous round