be down on
phr. v..phr. v.. to have a negative opinion of someone or something, or to treat them unfairly.
phr. v.. to maintain a critical or hostile attitude toward a person or entity; often implies a persistent state of disapproval or prejudice.
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.
- Particles
- down on
- Separability
- inseparable
- Pattern
- be + down + on + object
Always used with the verb 'to be' and followed by a person, group, or idea.
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.
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.