Phrasal verb
come down to
Meanings
to be decided by; to depend on one main factor
to be essentially about; to be reduced to a simple choice or point
Definition
If something comes down to something, it is decided by that one key factor or choice.
"Come down to" means to be reduced to the most important point or deciding factor. It is often used when many details are involved, but only one thing finally matters. It can also mean that a situation is essentially about a simple choice between options.
Examples
- In the end, it came down to one small mistake.
- For you, it all comes down to how much time you can commit.
- His decision came down to choosing between two cities.
- In our class project, it came down to clear communication.
- Their argument came down to trust.
Common mistake
Learners often use it for physical movement (e.g., "come down to the office") when they mean "depend on" or "be decided by."
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.