Phrasal verb
die down
Definition
phrasal verb. to become gradually weaker, quieter, or less intense. You use this when a noise, a fire, or a strong feeling slowly disappears.
phrasal verb. to gradually decrease in intensity, volume, or activity until reaching a state of near-quiescence. The verb is intransitive and does not take a direct object.
Examples
“The wind began to die down after the storm.”
“We waited for the applause to die down before the speaker continued her presentation.”
“Once the initial fervor of the protest began to die down, the organizers struggled to maintain public interest in the cause.”
Examples
simple
“The wind began to die down after the storm.”
contextual
“We waited for the applause to die down before the speaker continued her presentation.”
complex
“Once the initial fervor of the protest began to die down, the organizers struggled to maintain public interest in the cause.”
Usage
This verb is intransitive and never takes a direct object.
Teaching tip
Contrast with 'die out' to show the difference between losing intensity and becoming extinct.
Pitfall
The noise died down the room.
The noise in the room died down.
The verb is intransitive and cannot take a direct object.
Phrasal verb
Particles
down
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
die + down
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.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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