Turn Down – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever said no to a party invitation, declined a job offer, or lowered the volume on your speaker because it was too loud? In English, all of these actions can be described with the phrase turn down! This versatile phrasal verb has two main meanings: (1) to refuse or reject something, and (2) to reduce the level of sound, heat, light, or intensity.
What Does “Turn Down” Mean?
“Turn down” can mean two different things, depending on context:
1. To refuse or reject—like turning down an invitation, offer, or request.
2. To reduce the level—like turning down the music, thermostat, or brightness on your screen.
Think of it like rotating a dial downward: in one case, you’re lowering a setting; in the other, you’re lowering someone’s hopes by saying no. The phrase is simple, practical, and used constantly in everyday English.
When to Use It
Use this phrase in casual or neutral conversations:
• For refusing: “I had to turn down the job—it didn’t pay enough.”
• For reducing: “Can you turn down the TV? I’m on a call.”
It’s common in daily life, work emails, social plans, and even polite requests. This phrasal verb is informal but widely accepted—great for real-life English.
Example Sentences
- She turned down the scholarship because she got a better offer.
- Please turn down the air conditioning—it’s freezing in here!
- He turned down the volume so he wouldn’t wake the baby.
- They turned down our proposal, but thanked us for trying.
Mini Dialogue
Alex: “Did you accept the freelance gig?”
Jamie: “No, I turned it down. The deadline was too tight.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t confuse the two meanings. Context makes it clear—but be precise. Also, “turn down” for rejection always takes a direct object (you turn down *something*), while “turn down” for volume usually includes “the” + noun.
❌ Don’t say: “I turn down.” (Incomplete—turn down what?)
✅ Do say: “I turned down the offer.” or “I turned down the music.”
Practice Tip
Next time you say no to an invite or lower your phone’s brightness, say: “I turned it down.” It’s a natural way to use both meanings of this flexible phrase in English.
Final Note
Now you can use “turn down” to politely refuse offers or adjust settings with ease! Whether you’re saying no or turning the volume down, this phrase fits perfectly in real conversations. Keep using it—and remember, sometimes the kindest word is a gentle “no”… turned down with grace.