Phrasal verb
cry down
Definition
phrasal verb. to speak about something or someone as if they are not important or have little value.
phrasal verb. To disparage or belittle the reputation or value of something or someone. The verb is transitive and often implies a public or vocal attempt to depreciate an object's worth or a person's achievements.
Examples
“They always cry down his achievements because they are jealous.”
“Critics were quick to cry down the new policy before it even had a chance to show results.”
“The opposition party sought to cry down the administration's economic reforms, labeling them as short-sighted and ultimately detrimental to the working class.”
Examples
simple
“They always cry down his achievements because they are jealous.”
contextual
“Critics were quick to cry down the new policy before it even had a chance to show results.”
complex
“The opposition party sought to cry down the administration's economic reforms, labeling them as short-sighted and ultimately detrimental to the working class.”
Usage
Usually takes a direct object representing the person or thing being criticized.
Teaching tip
Contrast with the more common 'run down' or 'belittle'; it is often encountered in 19th-century literature or formal rhetorical contexts.
Pitfall
He cried down for help.
He cried out for help.
Cry down means to belittle, whereas cry out means to shout loudly.
Phrasal verb
Particles
down
Separability
optional
Pattern
cry + down + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- 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.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL 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: 6.0114–120
- Level
- C2 · Proficiency
- Updated
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