Phrasal verb
dumb down
Definition
phrasal verb. to make something simpler so more people can understand it, but in a way that makes it less intelligent.
phrasal verb. to simplify material to make it accessible to a broader audience, typically with the negative connotation of reducing intellectual quality or complexity. The verb is transitive and frequently appears in the passive voice.
Examples
“The TV show dumbs down the science to make it easier to follow.”
“The textbook was criticized for dumbing down the historical facts to the point of being inaccurate.”
“The editorial argued that the current political discourse has been significantly dumbed down by the relentless pursuit of soundbites over substantive policy debate.”
Examples
simple
“The TV show dumbs down the science to make it easier to follow.”
contextual
“The textbook was criticized for dumbing down the historical facts to the point of being inaccurate.”
complex
“The editorial argued that the current political discourse has been significantly dumbed down by the relentless pursuit of soundbites over substantive policy debate.”
Usage
This phrase usually carries a negative tone, suggesting that the simplification is unnecessary or insulting to the audience.
Teaching tip
Contrast with 'simplify' to show how 'dumb down' implies a loss of quality; it is a common term in discussions about media and education.
Pitfall
The author had to dumb down it for the public.
The author had to dumb it down for the public.
when the object is a pronoun, it must be placed between the verb and the particle.
Phrasal verb
Particles
down
Separability
optional
Pattern
dumb + 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.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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