# slam down

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/slam-down
Updated: 2026-10-23

## Definition

to put something onto a surface very hard and fast, usually because you are angry or in a hurry.

For teachers: to place an object onto a surface with significant force and noise. Transitive; often used to convey frustration, aggression, or a sense of finality in an action.

## Examples

- He slammed down the phone after the argument.
- Frustrated by the constant interruptions, the manager slammed down his notebook and walked out of the meeting.
- The judge slammed down the gavel, effectively silencing the murmurs that had begun to ripple through the crowded courtroom.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He slammed down to the table his keys." but "He slammed his keys down on the table." — the direct object should typically come before the particle 'down' or immediately after it, but not be separated from the verb by a prepositional phrase.

## Usage notes

- usually takes a physical object like a phone, a book, or a glass.
- Teaching tip: use this to teach the 'forceful' nuance of the verb 'slam' compared to 'put' or 'place'; it is a great example of how particles like 'down' add directional intensity to a base verb.

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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.