English Reference

Phrasal verb

charge down

Definition

phrasal verb. To run very fast towards someone or something to stop them or block them. You use this when a player in a game tries to block a ball.

phrasal verb. To move rapidly towards an opponent or object to obstruct or intercept an action. Transitive; frequently used in sports to describe blocking a kick or shot.

Examples

“The player ran fast to charge down the kick.”

“During the final minutes of the match, the defender managed to charge down the opponent's shot, saving the team from defeat.”

“Despite the intense pressure from the advancing frontline, the captain attempted to charge down the enemy's advance, demonstrating remarkable bravery under fire.”

Examples

simple

“The player ran fast to charge down the kick.”

contextual

“During the final minutes of the match, the defender managed to charge down the opponent's shot, saving the team from defeat.”

complex

“Despite the intense pressure from the advancing frontline, the captain attempted to charge down the enemy's advance, demonstrating remarkable bravery under fire.”

Usage

Usually takes a direct object, such as a player or a specific action like a kick.

Teaching tip

Focus on the physical direction and intent; it is more aggressive than 'running towards' and more specific than 'attacking'.

Pitfall

I need to charge down my phone.

I need to charge up my phone.

Learners often confuse 'down' with 'up' when talking about batteries; 'charge down' is for blocking an opponent in sports.

Phrasal verb

Particles

down

Separability

optional

Pattern

charge + down + object

Synonyms

rushinterceptblockconfront

Antonyms

retreatfleeavoid

Grammar

Phrasal verbs (introduction)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference