to lower

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to lower" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of reducing something, such as a level, amount, or intensity. Example: "We need to lower the temperature in the room to make it more comfortable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Prepare to lower!

Independent

Retailers fought hard to lower the fees.

The New York Times

Ramesh Ponnuru wants to lower them.

The New York Times

It's supposed to lower payment levels.

The New York Times

Oops, nearly forgot to lower the undercarriage.

The Economist

"I've got to lower the flag".

The New Yorker

Mr. Santorum likes to lower expectations.

The New York Times

She refused to lower her standards.

The New York Times - Sports

(Antipyretics are drugs used to lower temperature).

Independent

Putin needs to lower the temperature".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Will business flee to lower-wage cities?

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to lower" in a formal context, consider stronger verbs like "to reduce" or "to diminish" for increased precision.

Common error

Avoid using "to lower" when a more specific verb better captures the intended meaning. For instance, instead of "to lower expectations", use "to temper expectations" for a more nuanced expression.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to lower" functions primarily as an infinitive, indicating an action to be performed. It commonly introduces a verb phrase that expresses the act of reducing or decreasing something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

22%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

3%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the infinitive phrase "to lower" is a versatile and commonly used expression for indicating the act of reducing or decreasing something. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. It appears most frequently in news and media contexts but also finds use in wiki articles and business communications. When writing, consider using stronger verbs like "reduce" or "diminish" for increased formality and precision. Also, avoid using "to lower" when a more specific verb would better capture the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to reduce

Emphasizes decreasing quantity, size, or degree, often in a measurable way.

to decrease

Similar to "to reduce" but often implies a gradual decline.

to diminish

Suggests a reduction in importance or impact.

to lessen

Indicates a decrease in intensity or severity.

to curtail

Suggests restricting or cutting back on something.

to abate

Implies a reduction in something that is excessive or problematic.

to drop

Refers to decline, sometimes suddenly or sharply.

to sink

Suggests a downward movement, either literally or figuratively.

to depreciate

Specifically refers to a decrease in value.

to subdue

Signifies bringing something under control, reducing its strength or intensity.

FAQs

How can I use "to lower" in a sentence?

You can use "to lower" in various contexts, such as "to lower the price", "to lower the temperature", or "to lower your expectations". Each usage implies a reduction or decrease in something.

What can I say instead of "to lower"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "to reduce", "to decrease", or "to diminish" to express a similar meaning.

Which is correct, "to lower" or "to raise down"?

"To lower" is the correct and standard way to express the act of reducing something. "To raise down" is not a standard English phrase and should be avoided.

What's the difference between "to lower" and "to decline"?

"To lower" generally means to reduce something in amount, level, or intensity. "To decline" often refers to a gradual decrease or a refusal. While both involve reduction, "to decline" carries connotations of deterioration or intentional refusal.