things settled down

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "things settled down" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation that has become calmer or more stable after a period of chaos or uncertainty. Example: "After the initial chaos of the event, things settled down, and everyone was able to enjoy the festivities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Things settled down.

The New York Times - Arts

Then things settled down.

The New York Times

But finally, things settled down.

The New York Times

But after things settled down, she grew angry.

The New York Times

But things settled down quickly after Obama won the Presidency.

The New Yorker

When things settled down, we really didn't talk much.

The New York Times

Friday brought chaos, though things settled down over the weekend.

The New Yorker

Because I am.' Later, she says, things settled down.

The Guardian

As things settled down after a busy January, I discovered that my bookkeeper was committing fraud.

The New York Times

Then things settled down because "regulation had become pretty draconian" and laws were actually enforced.

The New York Times

Once things settled down, we would surely be returning to our lives back in Iran.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "things settled down" to indicate a return to normalcy or stability after a period of chaos, confusion, or excitement. It's appropriate for describing various situations, from personal matters to larger social or political events.

Common error

Avoid using "things settled down" to describe a process that is still actively changing. This phrase implies a state of relative completion or stability, not ongoing flux.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "things settled down" functions as an idiomatic expression indicating a return to a state of calm or stability after a period of disturbance or chaos. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Academia

2%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "things settled down" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a return to calmness or stability after a period of disturbance, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in news and media, it serves to inform and reassure that a situation has normalized. While versatile, formal or scientific contexts might benefit from alternatives like "the situation stabilized". Remember to use it to indicate actual stability, not ongoing change. The high frequency and consistent usage across authoritative sources reinforce its reliability in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

calmness returned

Focuses on the return of a peaceful state; emphasizes the emotional aspect of calmness.

the situation stabilized

Highlights the stabilization aspect, indicating a move towards a more predictable state.

order was restored

Implies that a previous state of disorder was present before the calm.

normality resumed

Indicates a return to the typical or usual state of affairs.

the dust cleared

Suggests that things became clearer or less chaotic after a period of turmoil.

the situation calmed

Emphasizes the calming aspect of the situation, focusing on emotional relief.

things went back to normal

Highlights the return to a normal state, emphasizing the routine and predictability.

peace prevailed

Emphasizes the victory of peace after some conflict or disturbance.

the crisis abated

Indicates that the crisis diminished or lessened in intensity.

tensions eased

Focuses on reduced tension or stress in a situation or relationship.

FAQs

How can I use "things settled down" in a sentence?

You can use "things settled down" to describe a return to a normal or stable state after a period of disturbance. For example, "After the initial chaos, "things settled down", and we were able to assess the damage."

What can I say instead of "things settled down"?

You can use alternatives like "calmness returned", "the situation stabilized", or "normality resumed" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "things settled down" in formal writing?

While "things settled down" is generally acceptable, for more formal writing, consider using phrases like "the situation stabilized" or "order was restored", which may sound more professional.

What's the difference between "things settled down" and "things went down"?

"Things settled down" implies a return to calmness or stability, while "things went down" generally means that something happened or occurred, often with a negative connotation. They have opposite meanings and shouldn't be confused.