Quick Definition
Turn Down — To refuse an offer or request; to reduce the volume or intensity of something.
Meanings of Turn Down
| Meaning | Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Refuse | She turned down the job offer. | She declined the offer. |
| Reduce volume/heat | Turn the music down — it's too loud. | Reduce the volume. |
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Meaning in Context |
|---|---|
| She turned down the job offer. | She declined the offer. |
| Turn the music down — it's too loud. | Reduce the volume. |
| "Don't worry -- I'll turn down it." | Using it in a short reassurance. |
| She decided to turn down the whole situation. | Applying the phrasal verb in context. |
Grammar Notes
Separability & Transitivity
Type: separable | Transitivity: transitive
Transitive and separable: turn the offer down or turn down the offer. Pronoun before particle: turn it down.
How to Use Turn Down
Neutral. Both meanings are common in everyday speech.
| Register | Example / Notes |
|---|---|
| Informal / Spoken | She turned down the job offer. |
| Neutral / Written | Consider context; single-word synonyms may suit formal writing. |
Similar Phrasal Verbs
Practise Turn Down
Practice English Phrasal Verbs
Use these exercises to master phrasal verbs in context:
Frequently Asked Questions about Turn Down
What does "Turn Down" mean?
"Turn Down" means: To refuse an offer or request; to reduce the volume or intensity of something. It is a transitive phrasal verb rated CEFR B1.
Is "Turn Down" separable or inseparable?
"Turn Down" is separable. Transitive and separable: turn the offer down or turn down the offer. Pronoun before particle: turn it down.
How do I use "Turn Down" in a sentence?
She turned down the job offer. -- in this example, 'Turn Down' means she declined the offer.
What is the register of "Turn Down"?
Neutral. Both meanings are common in everyday speech.
What CEFR level is "Turn Down"?
"Turn Down" is typically taught at CEFR B1 — Intermediate level. It appears frequently in neutral contexts.
What is the difference between "Turn Down" and similar phrasal verbs?
"Turn Down" specifically means: To refuse an offer or request; to reduce the volume or intensity of something. Compare with similar verbs in the 'Similar Phrasal Verbs' section below for nuanced differences.
Can "Turn Down" be used formally?
Neutral. Both meanings are common in everyday speech. When writing formally, consider whether a single-word synonym might be more appropriate for the context.
Does "Turn Down" take an object?
"Turn Down" is transitive. Transitive and separable: turn the offer down or turn down the offer. Pronoun before particle: turn it down.
How can I practise "Turn Down"?
Use LexFizz's Find the Match and Flip Tiles exercises to practise 'Turn Down' in context. Seeing it in multiple sentences helps the meaning stick.
Is "Turn Down" used in British or American English?
"Turn Down" is used in both British and American English, though register and frequency may vary. Neutral. Both meanings are common in everyday speech.