slow down — 2 meanings

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

phrasal verb2 meanings

slow down

reduce speed

become less active

Meaning 1 · most common

reduce speed

A scene showing “slow down” meaning “move more slowly”.

To move or do something more slowly, especially to avoid danger or because you are told to.

How oftenVery common

LevelB1

Used inSpeech & writing

Examples

You should slow down when driving through a school zone.

A: You're driving a bit fast.
B: Oh, sorry! I'll slow down.

Common mistake

Not: You should slow ~~down your speed.~~

Say: You should slow down.

'Slow down' already means reduce speed — 'slow down your speed' is redundant.

More on “reduce speed”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

If I notice someone tailgating me on the highway, I usually slow down to let them pass safely.

Tell it apart

Slow down, you're driving too fast.

reduce speed

Slow down, you're working too hard.

take it easier — sense 2

Goes with

slow down + context

Practice saying this

Next meaning: become less active

Meaning 2

become less active

A scene showing “slow down” meaning “live at a more relaxed pace”.

To do things at a more relaxed pace, or to become less busy or energetic.

How oftenCommon

LevelB2

Used inSpeech & writing

Examples

After working so much, I realized I needed to slow down and take care of myself.

A: You look exhausted.
B: Yeah, I think I need to slow down a bit.

Common mistake

Not: I need to slow down ~~my life.~~

Say: I need to slow down a bit.

In this sense 'slow down' stands alone — no object like 'my life'.

More on “become less active”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

Many people believe that it's important to slow down and enjoy life rather than always rushing from one thing to another.

Tell it apart

I'm trying to slow down and enjoy life.

live less frantically

Slow down, you're going too fast.

reduce speed — sense 1

Goes with

slow down + life

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reduce speed become less active