Phrasal verb
turn down
Meanings
to refuse an offer, request, or invitation
to reduce the volume, heat, or level of something
Definition
To turn down something is to refuse it or reduce its level.
“Turn down” most often means to refuse an offer, request, or invitation. It can also mean to reduce the volume, heat, or intensity of something. In everyday English, it is common in both personal and work situations.
Examples
- I had to turn down the invitation because I was working late.
- She turned down the job offer to stay closer to her family.
- Could you turn down the music a little?
- They turned down our request for an extra day to finish the project.
Common mistake
Learners often say “turn off the volume” when they mean “turn down the volume.”
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.