Looking up...
be down
/bi daʊn/◆phrasal verb
feel sad or depressed
She's been down since she lost her job.
She's been feeling sad since she lost her job.
informal
to feel sad, depressed, or in low spirits
He was really down after the breakup.
He was very sad after the breakup.
Don't be down—things will get better.
Don't feel sad—things will improve.
Often used in informal contexts to describe temporary sadness or disappointment.
informal
to be available or ready for something
I'm down for pizza tonight.
I'm available and willing to go for pizza tonight.
Are you down to help with the project?
Are you willing to help with the project?
Common in casual conversation, especially among younger speakers.
Collocations
be down withto be supportive of or agree with someone or somethingbe down forto be willing or ready to do something
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context Matters
The meaning of 'be down' changes based on the context. Pay attention to the situation to understand whether it means sadness or willingness.
Gold Rule
Informal Usage
'Be down' is most commonly used in informal, casual conversations. Avoid using it in formal or professional settings.
Word Origin
The phrase 'be down' comes from the idea of being in a low mood or state, both literally and figuratively.
Usage Notes
The meaning of 'be down' depends heavily on context. It can mean feeling sad or being willing to participate in something.
Word Breakdown
be
to exist in a certain state
verbdown
in a low or depressed state
adverbEnglish Dictionary