Down Idioms

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take it up/down a notch

Meaning: apply more effort to achieve a goal

Example: The team got through to the quarter-finals. Now they need to take it up a notch to get to the semis. Read more ➺


throw down the gauntlet

Meaning: To challenge someone openly and boldly.

Example: During the heated meeting, the union leader threw down the gauntlet and demanded immediate reforms. Read more ➺


kick the can down the road

Meaning: to avoid dealing with a problem

Example: I realise that the house needs to be painted but we are going to move in a few years so I am kicking the can down the road. Read more ➺


ups and downs

Meaning: good times and bad times

Example: Every relationship has its ups and downs. It is important to stick it out. Read more ➺


get down to brass tacks

Meaning: To begin discussing the most important facts of a matter.

Example: After the introductions, the team get down to brass tacks and discussed the project budget in detail. Read more ➺


down the drain

Meaning: to waste something

Example: Fixing that old car is just money down the drain, it will never run properly again. Read more ➺


down and out

Meaning: a homeless or impoverished person.

Example: After losing his work, he found himself down and out. Read more ➺


cut down

Meaning: to reduce the amount of something (usually bad)

Example: I am trying to cut down on sugar this month. I would like to lose some weight before going on holiday. Read more ➺


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