English Reference

Phrasal verb

fasten down

Definition

phrasal verb. to fix something firmly in place so it cannot move or blow away.

phrasal verb. to secure an object to a surface or position using physical restraints such as ropes, bolts, or straps.

Examples

“You should fasten down the garden furniture before the storm.”

“The workers had to fasten down the loose roof tiles to prevent any accidents during the high winds.”

“The crew worked tirelessly to fasten down the heavy equipment on the deck as the ship entered turbulent waters.”

Examples

simple

“You should fasten down the garden furniture before the storm.”

contextual

“The workers had to fasten down the loose roof tiles to prevent any accidents during the high winds.”

complex

“The crew worked tirelessly to fasten down the heavy equipment on the deck as the ship entered turbulent waters.”

Usage

often used with physical objects that are outdoors or on moving vehicles.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'fasten' (to close a button or belt); 'fasten down' emphasizes securing something to a base or surface to prevent movement.

Pitfall

Fasten down your seatbelt.

Fasten your seatbelt.

use 'fasten' for closing a belt or buckle; 'fasten down' is for securing an object to a floor or ground.

Phrasal verb

Particles

down

Separability

optional

Pattern

fasten + (object) + down

Synonyms

securetie downanchorfix

Antonyms

loosendetachunfasten

Grammar

This entry

Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

Scan code

englishreference.com/q/fasten-down

English Reference