Phrasal Verb - Bringing Down
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.Definition
The phrasal verb "bring down" (and its gerund form, "bringing down") is highly versatile, encompassing several distinct meanings depending on the context. It generally implies a reduction, a fall, a defeat, or a state of sadness or destruction. Specifically, it can mean:
- To cause to fall or collapse: This applies to physical objects, structures, or even individuals. For example, a strong gust of wind might bring down a tree, or an external force could bring down a building.
- To defeat, overthrow, or depose: Frequently used in political discourse to describe the removal of a government, a leader, or a regime from power. It can also refer to overcoming an opponent in a competition, debate, or struggle.
- To reduce in price, level, or amount: Commonly applied in economic and business contexts to signify the lowering of costs, prices, temperatures (e.g., a fever), or levels of something.
- To make someone sad or depressed: When a person, event, or situation causes another individual to feel despondent, unhappy, or disheartened.
- To kill (an animal or person): Often used in the context of hunting, military actions, or violent acts, typically implying shooting or felling a creature or individual.
- To cause an aircraft or spacecraft to land: To guide or force a flying object to descend to the ground or a designated landing area.
Examples
| No. | Example |
|---|---|
| 1 | The financial scandal had the potential to bring down the entire corporation. |
| 2 | Strong winds and heavy rain began to bring down branches from the ancient oak tree. |
| 3 | The government introduced new policies to bring down inflation and reduce living costs. |
| 4 | Don't let one negative comment bring down your morale; focus on your achievements. |
| 5 | Hunters typically use high-caliber rifles to bring down large game like moose. |
| 6 | Air traffic control guided the damaged plane, managing to bring it down safely. |
| 7 | The opposition party worked tirelessly to bring down the controversial new bill. |
| 8 | His constant criticism had a way of bringing down the mood of everyone in the meeting. |
| 9 | Efforts are being made to bring down the fever of the sick child. |
| 10 | Engineers had to use controlled demolitions to bring down the unsafe structure. |