Meaning of Downwards
towards the ground; towards a lower place or position
In simple words: Moving to a lower place or level.
Downwards in a sentence
- She was lying face downwards on the grass.
- The garden sloped gently downwards to the river.
- Nine per cent of commuters used public transport in 2018 and the trend is downwards.
- It was a policy welcomed by world leaders from the US president downwards.
- Official projections of the spread of AIDS have mercifully been revised downwards *(= it has been predicted that the disease will not spread as fast as had earlier been suggested)*.
- The economy is in a bad state and the stock market is spiraling downwards.
How to use Downwards
Commonly used in both written and spoken English. Often refers to physical movement or direction, but can also indicate a decrease in status or quality. Avoid in highly formal contexts.
Grammar pattern
standalone adverb
Memory hint
Imagine going down a slide — you move downwards to the ground.
Related words
Collocations with Downwards
- look downwards
- move downwards
- trend downwards
Opposites of Downwards
Common mistakes with Downwards
- Using 'downward' instead of 'downwards' in British English contexts.
- Confusing 'downwards' with 'downward' when referring to direction.
- Not using the word when describing a decrease in something like prices or temperatures.
Compare Downwards with Down, Downward, Beneath, Lower, Below
Downwards appears in
Downwards in other languages
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Frequently asked questions about Downwards
What does Downwards mean?
Moving to a lower place or level.
What is the definition of Downwards?
towards the ground; towards a lower place or position
How do you use Downwards in a sentence?
She was lying face downwards on the grass.
Can you give another example of Downwards?
The garden sloped gently downwards to the river.
What are synonyms for Downwards?
Common alternatives include down, downward, beneath, lower, below.
What is the opposite of Downwards?
Opposite meanings include upwards.
What words go with Downwards?
It commonly pairs with look downwards, move downwards, trend downwards.
What are common mistakes when using Downwards?
Using 'downward' instead of 'downwards' in British English contexts. Confusing 'downwards' with 'downward' when referring to direction. Not using the word when describing a decrease in something like prices or temperatures.
How do you pronounce Downwards?
US: /["/ˈdaʊnwərdz/"]/, UK: /["/ˈdaʊnwədz/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.
When should I use Downwards?
Commonly used in both written and spoken English. Often refers to physical movement or direction, but can also indicate a decrease in status or quality. Avoid in highly formal contexts.
What CEFR level is Downwards?
"Downwards" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.



