Phrasal verb
beat down
To beat down means to reduce a price by bargaining.
Meanings
To reduce the price of something by bargaining or negotiating.
To shine or fall strongly from above (used especially of the sun or heavy rain).
To defeat or physically overwhelm someone by repeated hits or force.
Definition
To beat down is usually used when you negotiate to make a price lower. It often happens in markets, shops, or when buying something second-hand. It can also describe the sun or heavy rain hitting strongly from above, or someone being physically overwhelmed in a fight.
Examples
- I tried to beat down the price at the flea market.
- She beat down the cost of the used bike by pointing out the scratches.
- They managed to beat down the hotel rate by calling during the off-season.
- The sun beat down on us as we waited for the bus.
- He got beat down in the first round and decided to stop the match.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse beat down (bargain for a lower price) with beat up (physically attack or damage).
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.