ENGLISH
REFERENCE

slim down

phrasal verb.
Definition

phrasal verb. to lose weight or become thinner. You can also use this to describe a company or group that becomes smaller to save money.

phrasal verb. to reduce one's body weight or physical size; by extension, to reduce the size, complexity, or workforce of an organization to increase efficiency.


SIMPLE

He managed to slim down by exercising every day.

CONTEXTUAL

The company had to slim down its marketing department after a difficult financial year.

COMPLEX

The athlete followed a rigorous training regimen to slim down before the championship match to meet the weight class requirements.

  • lose weight
  • get thin
  • trim down
  • downsize
Particles
down
Separability
optional
Pattern
slim (+ object) + down
Usage

can be used intransitively (a person slims down) or transitively (a manager slims down a team).

Teaching tip

contrast with 'lose weight' (neutral) and 'diet' (the process); 'slim down' often implies a positive or intentional result of becoming more efficient or fit.

Last updated July 29, 2026