# duck down

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

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

## Definition

to lower your head or body quickly so that you are not seen or hit by something.

For teachers: To lower the head or torso rapidly, typically to evade detection or avoid a physical object. It functions intransitively, describing the movement of the subject rather than an action performed on an object.

## Examples

- Duck down so the neighbors don't see you through the window.
- When the alarm went off, we had to duck down behind the counter until the guards passed by the front door.
- The soldiers were ordered to duck down as the helicopter swept over the ridge, its searchlight scanning the rocky terrain for any sign of movement.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He ducked down his head to avoid the branch." but "He ducked his head to avoid the branch." — When using the particle 'down', the verb is intransitive; if you want to mention a body part like 'head', use the simple verb 'duck' without 'down'.

## Usage notes

- This phrase is almost always used as an intransitive verb and does not take a direct object.
- Teaching tip: Focus on the speed of the action; 'ducking' is a sudden reaction to a threat or a need for concealment, unlike 'crouching' which can be a static pose.

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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.