# down tools

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/down-tools
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To stop work, especially when taking industrial action.

## Examples

- The workers decided to down tools until they get a raise.
- After the management refused to discuss the new contract, the entire factory staff chose to down tools in protest.
- Following weeks of failed negotiations, the union leaders instructed the laborers to down tools, effectively bringing the construction project to a complete standstill.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.