# cry down

CEFR C2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cry-down
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to speak about something or someone as if they are not important or have little value.

For teachers: To disparage or belittle the reputation or value of something or someone. The verb is transitive and often implies a public or vocal attempt to depreciate an object's worth or a person's achievements.

## Examples

- They always cry down his achievements because they are jealous.
- Critics were quick to cry down the new policy before it even had a chance to show results.
- The opposition party sought to cry down the administration's economic reforms, labeling them as short-sighted and ultimately detrimental to the working class.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He cried down for help." but "He cried out for help." — Cry down means to belittle, whereas cry out means to shout loudly.

## Usage notes

- Usually takes a direct object representing the person or thing being criticized.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with the more common 'run down' or 'belittle'; it is often encountered in 19th-century literature or formal rhetorical contexts.

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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.