wipe down

USAGE SUMMARY

"wipe down" is a valid and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to clean or remove dirt or stains from a surface by rubbing it with a cloth or other material. Example: After cooking, make sure to wipe down the countertops to remove any spills or crumbs.

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Also, wipe down the machines.

The New Yorker

We wipe down the counter.

The New Yorker

Then wipe down.

WikiHow

Wash or wipe down your bowl.

WikiHow

Dust and wipe down the shelves.

WikiHow

Then, wipe down your locker quickly.

WikiHow

Spray and wipe down the mirrors.

WikiHow

Also wipe down the flash contacts.

WikiHow

Be sure to wipe down your bench space after use.

WikiHow

Sometimes, just a simple wipe down isn't enough.

WikiHow

Wipe down equipment with antibacterial wipes.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "wipe down" for quick and easy cleaning that doesn't need extensive washing or scrubbing.

Common error

Avoid using "wipe down" when a more thorough cleaning method, such as scrubbing or disinfecting, is required. "Wipe down" implies a superficial cleaning, not a deep clean.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "wipe down" is that of a phrasal verb, used transitively to describe the action of cleaning a surface with a cloth or similar item. Ludwig AI confirms it is a common way to describe this type of cleaning. For example, "wipe down the counters".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

76%

News & Media

24%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "wipe down" is a phrasal verb commonly used to describe cleaning a surface by rubbing it with a cloth. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used. Its frequency is common, especially in informal contexts like WikiHow instructions, although it also appears in news media. While generally straightforward, remember to consider the level of cleaning required, as "wipe down" implies a superficial cleaning. For more intensive cleaning, alternative terms may be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clean the surface

A more general term for removing dirt or substances from a surface.

clean with a cloth

Specifies the tool used for cleaning, emphasizing the action.

give it a wipe

Informal, implies a quick cleaning action.

sanitize the area

Focuses on disinfection, implying a more thorough cleaning.

dust off

Specifically refers to removing dust from a surface.

mop up

Implies cleaning a spill or liquid.

scrub the surface

Denotes a more vigorous cleaning action than just wiping.

swab down

Often used in medical or scientific contexts, implies a sterile cleaning.

buff the area

Implies polishing or shining a surface.

wash down

Implies rinsing or cleaning with water.

FAQs

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

You can use "wipe down" to describe the action of cleaning a surface with a cloth, such as, "Please "wipe down" the kitchen counters after cooking".

What is a simple way to explain the meaning of "wipe down"?

"Wipe down" means to clean a surface by rubbing it with a cloth or a similar material. It's a quick and easy way to remove dirt, spills, or dust.

What are some alternatives to "wipe down"?

Some alternatives to "wipe down" include "clean the surface", "give it a wipe", or "clean with a cloth", depending on the context.

Is it incorrect to say "wipe off" instead of "wipe down"?

"Wipe off" and "wipe down" can be used in similar contexts, but "wipe down" often implies cleaning a larger or flatter surface, while "wipe off" can refer to removing something specific from a surface. For instance, you might "wipe off" a stain but ""wipe down"" a table.