to calm down

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to calm down" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to the act of becoming less agitated or upset. Example: "She took a few deep breaths to calm down before responding." Alternative expressions include "to relax" and "to settle down."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"I want people to calm down".

The New York Times

They want people to calm down first".

The New York Times

"Just trying to calm down," Wynn said.

The New York Times - Sports

"I'm telling him to calm down".

The New York Times

"I told him to calm down.

Independent

You have to calm down, Democrats.

The New York Times

To calm down, stop crying.

The New Yorker

I have to calm down".

The New York Times

"I've got to calm down".

The New Yorker

"I'm learning to calm down".

The New York Times - Sports

Time to calm down and talk.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing instructions or offering advice, consider using "to calm down" to encourage a more peaceful or rational state of mind. For example, "Take a deep breath to calm down before responding to the email."

Common error

Avoid using reflexive pronouns incorrectly with "to calm down". For instance, instead of saying "To calm myself down", which is redundant, simply use "to calm down" or, if you want to stress the reflexive nature, use "to calm myself".

Linguistic Context

The infinitive phrase "to calm down" functions primarily as an intransitive verb phrase, indicating the act of becoming less agitated or emotionally aroused. Examples from Ludwig show it used in direct commands or suggestions for emotional regulation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to calm down" is a versatile and commonly used infinitive phrase that means to become less agitated, nervous, or excited. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts, ranging from informal conversations to news reports. While "to calm down" has a neutral tone, alternative phrases such as "to relax" or "to compose oneself" might be more suitable in specific situations where a gentler or more formal tone is needed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s essential to avoid redundant reflexive pronouns when using "to calm down".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to relax

Focuses on reducing tension and achieving a state of rest.

to settle down

Implies becoming less restless or agitated, often in a specific setting.

to compose oneself

Suggests regaining control of one's emotions or behavior, often in a formal setting.

to simmer down

Indicates a gradual decrease in anger or excitement.

to cool off

Implies a reduction in anger or passion, often after a heated situation.

to chill out

An informal way of saying to relax and become less stressed.

to take it easy

Suggests avoiding stress and relaxing.

to get a grip

Implies regaining control over one's emotions, especially when feeling overwhelmed.

to collect oneself

Similar to composing oneself, but can also refer to gathering one's thoughts.

to quiet down

To become less noisy or agitated.

FAQs

How can I use "to calm down" in a sentence?

You can use "to calm down" in various contexts to suggest a reduction in agitation or excitement. For example, "She needed a moment "to calm down" before the presentation" or "The doctor advised him "to calm down" and take deep breaths".

What are some situations where using "to calm down" might be inappropriate?

While generally versatile, "to calm down" might be too direct in highly sensitive situations. In such cases, gentler alternatives like "to relax" or "to settle down" could be more suitable.

What's the difference between "to calm down" and "to settle down"?

"To calm down" generally refers to reducing emotional intensity or agitation, while "to settle down" often implies becoming less restless and establishing a more stable or routine state. The first is about emotional state, the second about physical or habitual state.

Is ""to calm down"" formal or informal?

"To calm down" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal settings, phrases like "to compose oneself" may be more appropriate.