Live Down – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever done something so embarrassing that you worried people would never forget it? In English, we say you’re trying to “live it down.” The idiom live down is helpful for talking about moving past shame, mistakes, or awkward moments. It’s common in everyday chats, especially with friends or in storytelling.
What Does “Live Down” Mean?
To “live down” something means to move past a bad or embarrassing event so people stop judging you for it. Think of it like waiting for a cringey moment to fade from everyone’s memory. It’s not about living in a house or staying alive—it’s emotional, not literal.
When to Use It
Use “live down” in informal or neutral conversations, such as:
- Talking about an awkward thing you said or did
- Joking with friends about a past mistake
- Discussing a public blunder (like a viral video or on-stage slip)
It’s mostly used in casual speech. Avoid it in formal reports or serious professional emails.
Example Sentences
- I’ll never live down that karaoke performance!
- He spilled coffee all over the CEO—good luck living that down.
- She wore mismatched shoes to the interview. Can she ever live it down?
- Even after ten years, my family won’t let me live down that dance move.
Mini Dialogue
Riya: “I called my teacher ‘Mom’ in front of the whole class.”
Liam: “Oh no! Are you ever going to live that down?”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Don’t use it for positive events: “She won an award—she’ll never live that down!” (Wrong!)
✅ Do use it for embarrassing or regrettable moments: “He tripped on stage—he’ll never live it down.”
Practice Tip
Practice Tip
Think of a funny or awkward moment (yours or someone else’s). Say out loud: “Will they ever live that down?”
Final Note
Now you can use “live down” like a native speaker! Everyone has embarrassing moments—what matters is laughing about them and moving on. Keep practicing, and soon this idiom will feel totally natural. You’re doing great!
