settle down

USAGE SUMMARY

"settle down" is correct and usable in written English.
It means to become calm or to calm oneself after having previously been tense or excited. It can also be used in the sense of making a home in a new place. For example, "After a few days in the new city, John and his family were beginning to settle down."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

All right, settle down.

The New York Times

"But I'll settle down.

The New York Times - Sports

"Now, settle down, settle down," he said.

The New York Times

"Now settle down, settle down," he said.

The New York Times

He seemed to settle down.

The New York Times - Sports

2. Will Don settle down?

Independent

Can't settle down.

The New York Times

"Oh, it'll settle down.

The New Yorker

"Let it settle down.

The Guardian

"Settle down, Hillary.

The New York Times

They settle down.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "settle down" to mean 'become calm', be mindful of the context. It can sometimes sound dismissive if used to address someone who is genuinely upset. Use it when the situation warrants a return to order or quiet.

Common error

Avoid using "settle down" interchangeably when you specifically mean 'to get married'. While marriage can be a part of settling down, the phrase encompasses more than just marital status. "He wanted to settle down" does not necessarily mean he wanted to get married; it could also mean he desired a more stable lifestyle.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "settle down" is as a phrasal verb. It modifies a subject, indicating a change in state (becoming calm) or action (establishing a stable life). Ludwig provides numerous examples of its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrasal verb "settle down" is a common and versatile expression with two primary meanings: to become calm and quiet, or to establish a stable lifestyle. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous real-world examples. Usage ranges from informal contexts to news reporting, with slight variations in formality. While "settle down" is widely understood, it's crucial to consider the specific context and audience to ensure the most appropriate and effective communication. Be mindful of potential misinterpretations, especially when implying marriage or dismissing someone's feelings. Understanding these nuances will help you use "settle down" effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

calm down

Focuses more on the immediate act of becoming less agitated or excited.

find stability

Stresses the achievement of a steady and secure state.

become quiet

Emphasizes the reduction of noise or disturbance.

establish a home

Highlights the act of creating a permanent residence.

compose oneself

More formal and emphasizes regaining control of one's emotions.

get married

Specifically refers to the act of entering into matrimony, one aspect of "settling down".

find your feet

Focuses on becoming comfortable and confident in a new situation, often preceding settling down.

make a life

Broader, referring to creating a fulfilling and stable existence.

set up shop

Implies establishing a business or enterprise in a specific location.

take it easy

Suggests relaxing and avoiding stress, a component of "settling down".

FAQs

What does "settle down" mean?

The phrasal verb "settle down" can mean to become quiet and calm, or to establish a settled lifestyle, often including marriage.

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

You can use "settle down" in a sentence like this: "Alright, everyone, "settle down".", or, "He decided it was time to "settle down" and start a family."

What's a more formal way to say "settle down"?

Depending on the context, more formal alternatives to "settle down" include "compose oneself" or "establish a residence".

Is it grammatically correct to say "settle down"?

Yes, "settle down" is grammatically correct and commonly used in both spoken and written English. Ludwig AI confirms this.