Phrasal verb
be down on
Definition
phrasal verb. to have a negative opinion of someone or something, or to treat them unfairly.
phrasal verb. to maintain a critical or hostile attitude toward a person or entity; often implies a persistent state of disapproval or prejudice.
Examples
“Why are you so down on my new car?”
“The boss has been down on Sarah lately, criticizing every small mistake she makes.”
“Critics were particularly down on the director's latest film, citing a lack of character development and a confusing plot.”
Examples
simple
“Why are you so down on my new car?”
contextual
“The boss has been down on Sarah lately, criticizing every small mistake she makes.”
complex
“Critics were particularly down on the director's latest film, citing a lack of character development and a confusing plot.”
Usage
Always used with the verb 'to be' and followed by a person, group, or idea.
Teaching tip
Contrast with 'to have it in for someone', which is more active and aggressive; 'be down on' is more about a general negative attitude or mood.
Pitfall
He is down of his job.
He is down on his job.
The correct preposition is 'on', not 'of' or 'about', to complete this specific phrasal verb.
Phrasal verb
Particles
down on
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
be + down + on + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/be-down-on