brings down

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "brings down" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the act of reducing, lowering, or causing something to decrease in status, value, or intensity. Example: "The new policy brings down the costs of production significantly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The section always brings down the house.

The New York Times - Arts

Paypal brings down curtains on payment Q.

Independent

Cheaper labour brings down production costs.

The Economist

It brings down my blood pressure.

The New York Times - Magazine

This time, he brings down his elbows.

The New York Times - Magazine

This is the sort of satire that brings down corporations.

Independent

— DUNCAN IRVING Arbeloa brings down Ronaldo 30 yards out.

The New York Times

You could say he brings down the house.

The New York Times

Then she brings down a Katrina-inspired deluge.

The New Yorker

Competition brings down price and brings up quality.

The New York Times

The absence of detail brings down a lot of coaches".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "brings down" to describe a decrease in something abstract like prices or costs, ensure the subject clearly identifies what is causing the reduction. For example, "Increased competition brings down prices."

Common error

Avoid using "brings down" in overly formal contexts where more precise vocabulary is expected. While acceptable in general writing, it may sound too informal in scientific or highly professional documents. Consider using alternatives like "reduces" or "decreases" for a more formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "brings down" primarily functions as a phrasal verb, where 'bring' is the main verb and 'down' is a particle. This construction modifies the verb's meaning. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase in written English. Examples show it used to describe reducing something or causing something to fall.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "brings down" is a versatile phrasal verb frequently used to describe a reduction, decrease, or downfall. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness in English. While highly prevalent in news and media, and also used in scientific writing, more formal contexts may benefit from synonyms like "reduces" or "decreases". The phrase functions primarily to express causation leading to a decline, and understanding its nuanced register ensures its effective use. When deployed, make sure the subject causing the decline is clear. Remember to consider alternatives based on the specific meaning you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lowers

Focuses specifically on reducing something in quantity or level.

reduces

Similar to 'lowers', but can also refer to simplifying something.

decreases

Implies a gradual reduction.

diminishes

Suggests a lessening in importance or impact.

collapses

Emphasizes a sudden and complete failure or breakdown.

overthrows

Indicates the forceful removal of a leader or system.

demolishes

Implies a complete destruction or dismantling.

topples

Suggests a loss of balance or stability, leading to a fall.

suppresses

Indicates the act of inhibiting or restraining something.

undermines

Focuses on weakening the foundation or support of something.

FAQs

How can I use "brings down" in a sentence?

You can use "brings down" to indicate a reduction or decrease in something. For instance, "The new technology "brings down" production costs" or "The scandal "brings down" the government's approval ratings".

What can I say instead of "brings down"?

Alternatives to "brings down" include "reduces", "decreases", "lowers", or "diminishes". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "brings down" in formal writing?

While "brings down" is generally acceptable, it might be perceived as slightly informal in some formal contexts. In academic or professional writing, consider using more precise synonyms like "reduces" or "decreases" for a more polished tone.

What's the difference between "brings down" and "collapses"?

"Brings down" usually implies a gradual or controlled reduction, while "collapses" suggests a sudden and complete failure. For example, a price reduction "brings down" inflation, but a market crash "collapses" the economy.