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close down — 2 meanings

One phrase, 2 meanings. Learn them one at a time, then test yourself.

phrasal verb2 meanings
close down
stop operatingend discussion

Meaning 1 · most common

stop operating

business, shop, etc.

  • close down sth

To stop operating permanently, especially for a business, shop, or organization.

How oftenCommon
LevelB1
Used inSpeech & writing

Examples

The old bakery had to close down because it wasn't making enough money.

A: Did you hear about the gym?
B: Yeah, they had to close down last month. It's such a shame.

Common mistake

Not: The café closed down its business.

Say: The café closed down. / They closed the café down.

When the business itself stops, it just 'closes down' (intransitive).

More on “stop operating”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

In my hometown, several small shops have closed down in recent years due to competition from big supermarkets.

Tell it apart

The shop closed down.

  • stopped operating for good

The shop closed early.

  • just shut for the day

Goes with

  • close down
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Next meaning: end discussion

Meaning 2

end discussion

  • close down sth

To bring a discussion, debate, or line of questioning to an abrupt or decisive end, often to prevent further argument or scrutiny.

How oftenNow and then
LevelC1
Used inSpeech & writing

Examples

The chairperson closed down the heated debate before it could escalate further.

A: I still have a few concerns about the proposal.
B: I'm afraid the matter has been closed down for now; let's move on to the next item.

Common mistake

Not: Every time I raised it, he closed down it.

Say: Every time I raised it, he closed it down.

With a pronoun object, put it in the middle — 'closed it down', not 'closed down it'.

More on “end discussion”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

In some meetings, leaders may close down criticism too quickly, which can stifle genuine discussion and innovation.

Tell it apart

He closed down the debate.

  • shut it off, refused to continue

He opened up the debate.

  • invited discussion

Goes with

  • close down + discussion
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Test yourself: which one is it?

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Pick a meaning and say it out loud. Save the ones you mix up.

stop operatingend discussion