shuts down

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shuts down" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the act of ceasing operations or turning off a device, system, or process. Example: "The computer shuts down automatically after a period of inactivity to save energy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Your life shuts down".

The New York Times

Oct. 1: Government shuts down!

The New York Times

Suddenly, System Shuts Down Q.

The New York Times - Tech

It shuts down political speech.

The New York Times

What happens if a service shuts down?

The Guardian - Tech

He pauses, and then shuts down.

The Guardian - Music

If it shuts down, it's over.

The Guardian

"Eyes are closed, the brain circuitry shuts down".

The New York Times - Travel

Liz Lemon | Tina Fey shuts down everything on "30 Rock".

The New York Times

Tea plucking shuts down from December to March in Darjeeling.

The New York Times

"It's like the whole building just shuts down," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "shuts down", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being shut down. Be specific about the subject to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "shuts down" too broadly without specifying the system, process, or entity being affected. For example, instead of saying "The project shuts down", specify "The project's funding shuts down".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shuts down" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It is used to describe the action of ceasing operation or activity, applicable to systems, organizations, or even abstract processes. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "shuts down" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the cessation of activity or operation across various contexts. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and frequently used in diverse sources, ranging from news media to technical documentation. While its register is typically neutral, its usage is widespread, indicating its utility in both formal and informal communication. When using "shuts down", clarity about what is ceasing operation is crucial. Remember the sources listed and the need to be precise on the subject that performs the action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

powers off

Specifically refers to the act of turning off a device or system.

ceases operation

Emphasizes the termination of activity, particularly in a business or organizational context.

is halted

Focuses on the action of stopping something, often abruptly.

ceases functioning

Highlights the end of a functional process or mechanism.

is disabled

Highlights the act of rendering something unable to function.

is deactivated

Implies a deliberate action to make something inactive.

grinds to a halt

Suggests a gradual and complete stop, often due to a problem or crisis.

comes to a standstill

Indicates a complete lack of movement or progress.

is terminated

Formally signifies the end of a process or agreement.

is discontinued

Refers to the ceasing of production or offering of a product or service.

FAQs

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

You can use "shuts down" to describe when a system, service, or entity ceases to operate. For example, "The government "shuts down" if a budget isn't agreed upon".

What are some alternatives to "shuts down"?

Alternatives include "ceases operation", "powers off", or "is deactivated", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "the system shuts down itself"?

While understandable, it's more grammatically sound to say "the system shuts itself down" or "the system shuts down automatically". The reflexive pronoun emphasizes that the system initiates the action.

What's the difference between "shuts down" and "is shut down"?

"Shuts down" is active voice, indicating the subject performs the action, as in "The computer "shuts down"". "Is shut down" is passive voice, indicating the subject receives the action, as in "The computer is shut down by the user".