shutting down

USAGE SUMMARY

"shutting down" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in situations when something is coming to an end, such as when a machine is turned off or when a process is coming to an end. Example: "The system is shutting down for the night."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's actually shutting down".

The Guardian - Sport

Not to mention shutting down girls' schools.

The New Yorker

I feel Obamacare is shutting down America".

The New York Times

He has opposed shutting down Bethune.

The New York Times

"Am I shutting down?" he asks.

The New York Times

"We're shutting down," he says.

The New York Times - Magazine

My body was shutting down".

The New York Times - Sports

Bill His been an unusystemshealthy man were into hishuttinges, who took the stairs andownnt to the gym, but the ordown of blindowns was crushing him, downby down

The New Yorker

That was shutting down, literally.

Forbes

It's shutting down, yes.

TechCrunch

These labs aren't all necessarily shutting down.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about computers, servers or other digital devices, use "shutting down" to describe a clean orderly process where the device turns off completely.

Common error

While "shutting down" can be used metaphorically (e.g., "shutting down emotionally"), avoid overusing it in contexts where simpler, more direct language would be clearer and more impactful. Using the phrase in every possible scenario might weaken the overall message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shutting down" primarily functions as a verb phrase, specifically a present participle acting as part of a continuous verb tense. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used. It describes an ongoing action of ceasing operation or activity. This can be observed in examples provided by Ludwig, such as "It's actually shutting down".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "shutting down" is a versatile verb phrase that describes the process of ceasing operation or activity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across a wide range of contexts. As demonstrated by examples from Ludwig, it is commonly used in news, media, and technical contexts. While its register is generally neutral, it can be adapted to both formal and informal settings. When using this phrase, remember to avoid overuse in overly dramatic situations and use more direct language. Consider alternative phrases like "ceasing operation" or "closing off" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ceasing function

Focuses on the cessation of a specific capability or purpose that something serves.

ceasing operation

A more formal and technical way of expressing the termination of a process or business.

terminating process

Specifically refers to ending a defined series of actions or steps, often in a technical or procedural context.

closing off

Implies a more gradual or partial cessation compared to the abruptness sometimes associated with "shutting down".

deactivating system

Implies that a machine is made inactive, often through a defined procedure.

bringing to a halt

Emphasizes the action of stopping something, often with the connotation of force or urgency.

discontinuing service

Applies specifically to the cessation of providing a service, often in a commercial or utility context.

powering off

Specifically refers to ceasing the operation of electronic devices by cutting off power.

halting production

Refers specifically to stopping the creation or manufacture of goods or services.

suspending activity

Indicates a temporary halt, rather than a complete termination, of an action or process.

FAQs

How is "shutting down" used in technical contexts?

In technical contexts, "shutting down" refers to the process of properly terminating the operation of a device or system, such as a computer or server. It ensures that data is saved and the system is brought to a stable, powered-off state.

What are some synonyms for "shutting down" in a business context?

In a business context, synonyms for "shutting down" include "ceasing operation", "closing shop", "terminating business", or "liquidating assets". The specific term depends on the reason and permanence of the closure.

Can "shutting down" be used metaphorically?

Yes, "shutting down" can be used metaphorically to describe a person's emotional state, meaning they are becoming withdrawn, unresponsive, or emotionally numb. For example, "After the argument, he was "shutting down" and refused to speak."

Is there a difference between "shutting down" and "closing down"?

While similar, "shutting down" often refers to a temporary or orderly process of termination, whereas "closing down" often suggests a more permanent or complete cessation of activity, such as a business closing permanently.