English Reference

Phrasal verb

calm down

Definition

phrasal verb. to become quiet and relaxed after being angry, excited, or upset.

phrasal verb. to transition from a state of high emotional arousal or agitation to a state of composure; can be used intransitively or transitively.

Examples

“Please calm down and tell me what happened.”

“After the argument, he went for a long walk to calm down before speaking to her again.”

“The central bank's intervention was designed to calm down the volatile markets following the unexpected election results.”

Examples

simple

“Please calm down and tell me what happened.”

contextual

“After the argument, he went for a long walk to calm down before speaking to her again.”

complex

“The central bank's intervention was designed to calm down the volatile markets following the unexpected election results.”

Usage

often used as an imperative, though this can sometimes make an angry person feel more frustrated.

Teaching tip

note the silent 'l' in 'calm'; as a transitive verb, the object can go between 'calm' and 'down' (e.g., 'calm him down').

Pitfall

You need to calm.

You need to calm down.

while 'calm' is an adjective, the phrasal verb 'calm down' is required to describe the action of becoming peaceful.

Phrasal verb

Particles

down

Separability

optional

Pattern

calm (+ object) + down

Synonyms

relaxsettlecool offcompose oneself

Antonyms

get worked uppanicagitate

Grammar

Phrasal verbs (introduction)

This entry

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.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL 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: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Level
A2 · ElementaryOxford
Updated

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