# close down

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/close-down
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to stop operating a business or factory forever.

For teachers: to cease operations permanently, typically in reference to a commercial or industrial enterprise.

## Examples

- The old cinema had to close down last month.
- Many small shops on the high street are closing down because of high rents.
- The government decided to close down the coal mines despite fierce opposition from the local community and trade unions.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The shop was closed down by the owner." but "The owner closed the shop down." — while both are grammatically correct, learners often forget that this phrasal verb is optional in its separability when using a noun object.

## Usage notes

- can be used with or without a direct object.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'shut down', which can be temporary (like a computer), whereas 'close down' usually implies a permanent end to the business.

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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.