Phrasal verb
die down
Meanings
to become less loud, strong, or intense over time
to become calmer after anger, conflict, or excitement
Definition
If something dies down, it becomes quieter, less intense, or less active.
To die down means to gradually become less strong, loud, or intense. It is often used for noise, wind, storms, anger, arguments, or excitement. It suggests a slow decrease rather than a sudden stop.
Examples
- I waited for the wind to die down before I went outside.
- Can you lower your voice until the noise dies down?
- He stayed in the café until the street protests died down.
- She took a walk to let her anger die down.
- They paused the meeting until the discussion died down.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes say "die off" instead of "die down" for noise or intensity, but "die down" is the natural choice for something becoming less strong or loud.
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.