How Do You Spell DOWN ON?

Pronunciation: [dˌa͡ʊn ˈɒn] (IPA)

The spelling of the phrase "down on" may seem confusing to some, as the pronunciation does not always match the written form. In IPA, the pronunciation is /daʊn ɒn/, with a diphthong in the first syllable and a schwa sound in the second. The spelling "down" comes from the Old English "dūn," meaning hill or mound, while the preposition "on" is derived from the Old English "an." Together, "down on" can mean "against" or "disapproving of" something or someone.

Meaning and Definition
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Etymology
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DOWN ON Meaning and Definition

  1. Down on is a phrasal verb typically used to describe someone's negative attitude, opinion, or feelings towards something or someone. It implies a critical or unfavorable view, often leading to disapproval, disappointment, or dismissiveness. The term can be understood as an expression of dissatisfaction or lowered esteem towards the object of focus.

    For instance, if someone says they are "down on" a particular restaurant, it means they have a negative impression or assessment of its quality, service, or overall experience. Similarly, if a person is "down on" another individual, it suggests that they have a negative opinion of that person, possibly due to their behavior, attitude, or perceived shortcomings.

    The phrase "down on" is also commonly employed to express one's pessimistic or bearish outlook on financial markets or investments. In this context, being "down on" a stock or a particular industry indicates a belief that its value will decline or that it will not perform well in the future.

    In summary, the term "down on" signifies a critical or unsupportive perspective towards a person, thing, or situation, emphasizing disapproval, disappointment, or negativity. It suggests a diminished regard, possibly influenced by various factors such as poor performance, unfavorable behavior, or unfavorable market conditions.

Top Common Misspellings for DOWN ON *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Etymology of DOWN ON

The etymology of the phrase "down on" can be traced back to Middle English.

The word "down" originally comes from Old English "dūn", meaning hill or mound. Over time, it developed various meanings, including a low or lower position, or movement in a downward direction.

The preposition "on" comes from Old English "on", meaning upon or on top of. It is often used to indicate location or direction.

When combined, the phrase "down on" typically implies a negative or critical attitude towards someone or something. It could be seen as an expression of disapproval or disappointment. The use of "down" in this context conveys the sense of lowering or diminishing someone or something in esteem or importance.

For example, if someone says they are "down on their luck", it means they are experiencing a streak of bad fortune or difficult circumstances.

Idioms with the word DOWN ON

  • be down on sb To be down on someone is an idiomatic expression meaning to have a negative or critical opinion of someone. It suggests that one feels disapproving, unsupportive, or unfriendly towards that person.
  • be down on your luck The idiom "be down on your luck" means to be experiencing a period of misfortune or having a string of bad luck. It implies that someone is going through a difficult or unfortunate time in their life, usually due to circumstances beyond their control.
  • sweep down on sm or sth The idiom "sweep down on someone or something" generally means to approach or attack quickly and forcefully, often with a sense of surprise or overwhelming force.
  • charge down on sm or sth To "charge down on someone or something" means to rush or move quickly towards someone or something in an assertive or aggressive manner. It often implies a forceful movement or attack with determination or intensity.
  • lash down on sm or sth The idiom "lash down on someone or something" means to strongly criticize, scold, or reprimand someone or something. It implies harsh and forceful action being taken against someone or something to express disapproval or disfavor.
  • look down on The idiom "look down on" means to hold a feeling of superiority or to have a condescending attitude towards someone or something. It implies that you view the person or thing as inferior or of less importance.
  • down on luck The idiom "down on luck" refers to a situation where someone is experiencing a period of bad fortune, encountering misfortune or facing difficult circumstances in life. It suggests that the person is in need of some luck or positive outcomes to overcome their current situation.
  • be down on luck The idiom "be down on luck" means to experience a period of misfortune or bad luck.
  • glare down on sm or sth The idiom "glare down on someone or something" means to look or stare at someone or something in a disapproving or judgmental manner. It often conveys a feeling of superiority or condescension.
  • look down on sb/sth The idiom "look down on someone/something" means to regard someone or something as inferior or of lower status and importance. It implies a judgmental attitude or a sense of superiority towards the person or thing being looked down upon.
  • down on one's luck The idiom "down on one's luck" typically refers to someone experiencing a period of misfortune, adversity, or lack of success. It means that a person is facing challenges or difficulties, often related to financial or personal circumstances, that have resulted in a decline in their overall situation or state of well-being.
  • go down on The idiom "go down on" generally refers to the act of performing oral sex on someone.
  • be down on (one's) luck The idiom "be down on (one's) luck" means to be experiencing a period of misfortune or bad luck. It implies that someone is going through a difficult time, often facing challenges or hardships in various aspects of life, such as personal, financial, or professional.
  • charge down on The idiom "charge down on" typically means to approach or confront someone or something with great force, energy, or determination. It often implies a sudden and aggressive action taken towards a particular target.
  • charge down on (someone or something) The idiom "charge down on (someone or something)" means to rush or run aggressively towards someone or something with force and intensity. It typically implies a sudden and forceful approach in a confrontational or threatening manner.
  • be down on (someone or something) The idiom "be down on (someone or something)" means to have a negative or unfavorable attitude, opinion, or judgment towards someone or something. It implies the feeling of disapproval or lack of support.
  • bring (something) down on (one's) head The idiom "bring (something) down on (one's) head" means to cause trouble, harm, or negative consequences for oneself due to one's own actions or decisions. It refers to a situation where someone's actions result in negative outcomes that directly affect them.
  • rain down on sm or sth The idiom "rain down on someone or something" means to have a large quantity of something, usually negative or undesirable, come down or be imposed upon someone or something suddenly and heavily. It implies a rapid and overwhelming occurrence.
  • have a down on (someone or something) The idiom "have a down on (someone or something)" means to have a strong, often unfounded, dislike or prejudice towards someone or something. It implies having negative feelings, holding a grudge, or being constantly critical and judgmental towards the person or thing in question.
  • be/come down on sb like a ton of bricks The idiom "be/come down on someone like a ton of bricks" means to harshly criticize, scold, or punish someone severely for their actions or behavior. It implies that the person is being confronted or reprimanded with great intensity and forcefulness, similar to the impact of a heavy object like a ton of bricks falling on them.
  • have a (or be) down on The idiom "have a (or be) down on" means to disapprove of or have a negative opinion about someone or something. It implies a feeling of hostility, criticism, or bias towards the person or subject in question.
  • bear down on The idiom "bear down on" means to approach someone or something rapidly and with great force or intensity. It often implies an impending threat or pressure.
  • bring the curtain down on something The idiom "bring the curtain down on something" means to bring an activity, event, or project to a conclusion or an end. It alludes to the closing of a theatrical performance, where the curtain is brought down at the end of the show. Therefore, using this idiom implies finalizing or wrapping up something, often with a sense of finality.
  • clamp down on sth The idiom "clamp down on sth" means to take strict and immediate measures to control or suppress something, especially to prevent it from getting out of control or becoming a problem. It refers to imposing stricter regulations, rules, or restrictions in order to exert control or stop certain actions or behaviors.
  • be down on (one) like a ton of bricks The idiom "be down on (one) like a ton of bricks" means to criticize or confront someone harshly and with great intensity. It implies that the person's actions or behavior have caused significant disapproval or anger. The phrase suggests that the criticism will be swift, forceful, and unrelenting, similar to the impact of a ton of bricks falling on someone.
  • come down on (one) like a ton of bricks The idiom "come down on (one) like a ton of bricks" means to reprimand or criticize someone in a harsh, severe, or punitive manner. It implies a sudden and forceful response, often resulting in feelings of being overwhelmed or oppressed by the criticism.
  • fall down on The idiom "fall down on" generally means to fail to fulfill a responsibility, duty, or expectation. It implies that someone has not met the necessary standards or has not performed to the best of their ability in a certain situation. It can also refer to making errors or mistakes.
  • clamp down on (someone or something) The idiom "clamp down on (someone or something)" means to take strict measures or impose severe restrictions or controls on someone or something, often in order to stop or prevent certain behavior or activity. It refers to regulating or cracking down on a person, group, or situation to ensure compliance or to suppress undesirable actions.
  • push down on The idiom "push down on" refers to using force or pressure to suppress or repress something, such as feelings, emotions, or information. It implies exerting control or attempting to keep something hidden or restrained.
  • the curtain comes down on sth The idiom "the curtain comes down on sth" typically means the end or conclusion of something, often referring to an event or situation. It originates from the theatrical context where the curtain represents the ending of a performance when it closes.
  • blaze down on (someone or something) The idiom "blaze down on (someone or something)" typically means to shine very brightly and intensely on someone or something. It often refers to the scorching heat of the sun or strong, focused lights.
  • fall down on the job The idiom "fall down on the job" refers to someone's failure to fulfill their responsibilities or duties in a satisfactory manner. It implies negligence, incompetence, or a lack of effort in performing one's tasks or meeting expectations.
  • go down on (someone) The idiom "go down on (someone)" is a colloquial phrase that refers to the act of performing oral sex on another person.
  • come down on sb like a ton of bricks The idiom "come down on sb like a ton of bricks" means to scold, criticize, or reprimand someone very harshly or severely. It implies that the person delivering the scolding or criticism is doing so with great intensity, force, and lack of mercy.
  • come down on one side of the fence or the other The idiom "come down on one side of the fence or the other" means to make a clear decision or choose to support one side of an issue, rather than remaining undecided or neutral. It implies the need to take a definite position or express a strong opinion instead of being indecisive or ambiguous.
  • sit down on The idiom "sit down on" generally means to deceive, betray, or disappoint someone, especially when they had high expectations or trust in a person or situation. It implies that the person's hopes or trust were shattered or let down unexpectedly.
  • have a down on someone/something The idiom "have a down on someone/something" typically means to harbor a strong feeling of dislike, hostility, or prejudice towards a person or thing. It signifies having a negative or critical attitude towards someone or something, often without a valid reason or justification.
  • lay down on the job The idiom "lay down on the job" means to be lazy, neglectful, or to not put in sufficient effort in performing one's duties or tasks. It implies someone's lack of commitment, dedication, or willingness to work diligently.
  • bring something down on The idiom "bring something down on" typically means to cause trouble, harm, or negative consequences for oneself or others, usually as a result of one's own actions or decisions. It implies taking actions that lead to undesirable outcomes or inviting trouble upon oneself.
  • never let the sun go down on your anger The idiom "never let the sun go down on your anger" means that one should resolve or reconcile any conflicts or disagreements before the day ends. It emphasizes the importance of addressing and resolving any negative emotions or conflicts before they worsen or cause further damage.
  • go down on one's knees The idiom "go down on one's knees" means to kneel down as a sign of pleading, submission, or respect. It can also imply expressing a desperate or sincere request for forgiveness, mercy, or assistance from someone more powerful or influential.
  • be down on like a ton of bricks The idiom "be down on like a ton of bricks" means to criticize, reject, or punish someone or something severely and without hesitation. It implies a rapid and intense response to disapprove or confront a situation or person.
  • fall down on someone or something The idiom "fall down on someone or something" generally means to fail to live up to or fulfill expectations, responsibilities, or duties towards someone or something. It refers to a situation where a person or thing disappoints or does not meet the desired standards or obligations.
  • have a down on The idiom "have a down on" means to have a strong and unfounded dislike or negative attitude towards someone or something. It implies holding a grudge or prejudice without any valid reason or justification.
  • have a down on somebody/something The idiom "have a down on somebody/something" means to harbor a strong feeling of dislike, prejudice, or hostility towards a particular person or thing. It implies holding a negative opinion or attitude that may be rooted in personal bias or past experiences.
  • get down on someone The idiom "get down on someone" typically refers to expressing disapproval or criticism towards someone, or to hold a negative opinion or attitude about someone. It can also mean to belittle, scold, or be harshly judgmental towards someone.
  • come down on the side of The idiom "come down on the side of" means to choose or support a particular side or opinion in a dispute or debate. It refers to making a decision or forming a judgment in favor of a particular viewpoint or stance.
  • come down on (someone or something) The idiom "come down on (someone or something)" has a few different meanings and interpretations depending on the context in which it is used. Here are two common definitions: 1. To criticize or punish someone or something harshly or severely. Example: "The teacher came down on her for consistently not submitting her homework on time." 2. To make a final decision or judgment about someone or something, often involving taking a firm stance. Example: "The jury came down on the side of the plaintiff, awarding them a substantial settlement." Overall, the idiom implies a significant and often negative action or decision taken against someone or something.
  • the curtain comes down on (something) The idiom "the curtain comes down on (something)" means that an event or activity has come to an end, typically in a final or dramatic way. It originates from the literal act of closing the curtain on a stage after a performance is finished, symbolizing the conclusion of the show.
  • press down on The idiom "press down on" refers to exerting force or putting pressure on someone or something, usually in a figurative sense. It implies exercising control, dominance, or influence in a way that limits or restricts the actions or freedoms of others.
  • bring down on The idiom "bring down on" typically means to cause or invite negative consequences or punishment onto oneself or someone else.
  • the curtain comes down on The idiom "the curtain comes down on" refers to the end or conclusion of something, typically an event or performance. It suggests that the moment of closure or finality has arrived, similar to when a theater curtain is lowered or drawn to mark the end of a show.
  • beat down on The idiom "beat down on" typically refers to the act of shining, blazing, or scorching down with intense heat or intensity. It usually describes how the sun or any other source of light or energy is exerting its force upon something or someone.
  • lash down on someone or something The idiom "lash down on someone or something" typically means to suddenly and severely criticize, condemn, or chastise someone or something in a harsh or forceful manner. It implies a strong, decisive action or response that is intended to express disapproval or reprimand.
  • go down on knees The idiom "go down on knees" means to physically kneel down, typically on both knees, often as a sign of supplication, desperation, or pleading. It can also metaphorically refer to someone humbling themselves or showing extreme subservience or devotion towards someone or something.
  • beat down on (someone or something) The idiom "beat down on (someone or something)" means to forcefully criticize, belittle, or oppress someone or something, typically through harsh words or actions. It implies a consistent and unrelenting nature of the criticism or mistreatment.
  • come down on To come down on someone or something means to criticize, reprimand, or punish them firmly. It implies taking a strong stance or harshly dealing with a person or situation.
  • bring (something) down on (oneself) The idiom "bring (something) down on (oneself)" means to cause trouble, consequences, or negative outcomes for oneself as a result of one's own actions or behavior. It implies that someone willingly or unknowingly invites problems or repercussions upon themselves through their own choices or actions.
  • come down on the side of (someone or something) The idiom "come down on the side of (someone or something)" means to support or favor a particular person, group, or stance in a given situation or argument. It implies taking a position or standing with that person or thing, often in a decisive or firm manner.
  • come down on sb/sth The idiom "come down on someone or something" means to criticize, reprimand, or punish someone or something severely. It implies taking a firm or strict stance against someone or something, expressing disapproval or taking disciplinary action.
  • be/come down on somebody like a ton of bricks The idiom "be/come down on somebody like a ton of bricks" means to criticize, confront, or punish someone severely or harshly for something they have done wrong or for their actions. It implies an intense and forceful reaction, often without any leniency or mercy.
  • come down on someone like a ton of bricks The idiom "come down on someone like a ton of bricks" means to criticize or punish someone severely and without mercy. It implies that the person's actions or behavior have caused strong disapproval or anger, and the consequences or judgment they face will be very harsh and unforgiving.
  • press down on sm or sth The idiom "press down on someone or something" means to apply pressure or impose a heavy burden or demand on someone or something. It can also refer to exerting control or domination over someone or a situation.
  • glare down on someone or something The idiom "glare down on someone or something" means to look at or regard someone or something with intense disapproval, hostility, or disdain. It often involves a stern or menacing facial expression that conveys superiority or contempt.
  • fall down on sm or sth The idiom "fall down on someone or something" means to fail in meeting expectations, responsibilities, or obligations towards a person or a particular task or situation. It implies that the person did not perform to the level or standard that was expected of them.
  • lie down on the job The idiom "lie down on the job" means to not put in the required effort or perform poorly in one's duties or responsibilities. It refers to someone being lazy, unproductive, or negligent in their work.
  • lie down on
  • down on The idiom "down on" typically means to have negative feelings or opinions about someone or something. It can also refer to being critical or disapproving of someone or something.
  • *down on someone or something To have a negative opinion, judgment, or attitude towards someone or something.
  • flop sth down on(to) sth To put something down onto a surface with little care or effort, typically causing a noise or impact.
  • flop something down on(to) something The idiom "flop something down on (to) something" means to drop, throw, or place something onto a surface in a careless or casual manner.

Similar spelling words for DOWN ON

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