put down
Meaning(s)
1. record or make note of something, express a commitment to something
Popularity
Medium
Professional
Medium
Social
How to Memorize
put my name down for something
Analysis
Put down is a phrasal a verb with a number of different meanings. To put an object down means to put something or someone on a surface or at a lower level to where it currently is. If you put down a person, it means to be critical of someone in a public or derogatory way. If you kill an animal by using a lethal injection in order to make their death more humane you can say you put down the animal. Sometimes if you are talking about putting something down, it can mean to write something or to put something down on paper in order to preserve a record. If you put money down on something it usually refers to paying a deposit or to pay a fraction of the cost of something or to put money towards a specific purpose. When talking about transport to put down someone can mean to stop to allow someone to exit a vehicle. When you are talking about a plane landing you can also use the phrase a verb put down. If you put a young child or baby to bed you can say you put them down for the night. To formally ask a committee or department or official organisation to consider something you might need to put down a motion or put down a suggestion.
Social Examples (Basic)
- That charity seems like a really good cause. Put me down for a 50 euro donation.
- The course being offered seemed great, so I put my name down for it.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- I know you have a doctor's appointment tomorrow evening, so I'm putting you down for the early shift so you can be finished work in time.
- Thanks for letting us know that you're unwell, I'll put you down as being absent for next week.
2. criticize or insult yourself or others in a harsh way
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
put someone/yourself down
Analysis
The phrasal a verb put down or to put down someone refers to criticising someone or someones work in a derogatory, negative or embarrassing way.
Social Examples (Basic)
- Stop putting yourself down! You're much more capable than you give yourself credit for.
- The comedian delivered a witty put-down to the audience member who heckled him during his show.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- I don't like to put down other companies, but what we are offering is the best package by a long shot.
- If you want to keep your team motivated you need to offer constructive criticism and praise rather than put down other peoples work all the time.