go down
Meaning(s)
1. to take place or happen, be received or recorded in a particular way, fail or cease to function properly
Popularity
Medium
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
I have no idea what went down at the party. I wasn't there.
Analysis
Expression 'what's going down?' is an informal way of asking 'what is happening?' or 'what is going on?'. This is a predominantly American expression. In the past tense, you might ask 'what went down?' so you might ask 'what went down at the meeting yesterday?' or 'let me tell you what went down in the bar last night'. This is a casual expression but you can hear it in both social and professional environments.
Social Examples (Basic)
- I think that match will go down in the record books as the best of all time!
Professional Examples (Basic)
- I wasn't there so I have no idea what went down at the meeting. Mary was, though. You should ask her.
- My presentation obviously didn't go down too well with the investors. They all seemed bored and disinterested.
- Every time the internet goes down I lose all my work! I really need to get a new router.