Cool MateDown vs Lower
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Down | Lower | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | A word meaning below or to lower something. | to make something less high or to decrease it |
| CEFR level | A1 | B2 |
| Part of speech | adverb | verb |
| Usage notes | Use 'down' to indicate direction or position. It's appropriate in both casual and formal contexts but avoid using it in overly formal writing where more specific terms might be required. | Use 'lower' when referring to reducing something physically or metaphorically. It’s appropriate in most contexts, but avoid using it in overly formal writing. |
Frequently asked questions: Down vs Lower
What's the difference between "Down" and "Lower"?
"Down" means: A word meaning below or to lower something. "Lower" means: to make something less high or to decrease it
When should I use "Down" and "Lower"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Down" and "Lower" the same CEFR level?
"Down" is at A1, "Lower" is at B2 on the CEFR scale.