close down — end discussion
To bring a discussion, debate, or line of questioning to an abrupt or decisive end, often to prevent further argument or scrutiny.
Say it like a native
Textbook The chairman peremptorily curtailed any further deliberation on the topic.
Native He closed the discussion down before anyone could object.
'Peremptorily curtailed further deliberation' is heavy; 'close the discussion down' is natural.
Pattern: close down (discussion/argument/criticism/line of questioning)
In use
- The chairperson closed down the heated debate before it could escalate further.debate
- In some meetings, leaders may close down criticism too quickly, which can stifle genuine discussion and innovation.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ He closed down the debate to anyone questioning him.
✓ He closed down the debate, refusing to let anyone question him.
'Close down' a debate = shut it off; don't follow it with 'to + person'.
Common collocations
close down + discussion— the debate, the discussion, any questions, the conversation
Don't confuse it
Unlike the B1 sense, which refers to stopping a business or organization from operating, this sense is figurative and refers to ending a discussion or debate, not a physical entity.
Related
- close down (stop operating (business, shop, etc.)) — 'close down' also has the more basic meaning 'stop operating (business, shop, etc.)'; this is the advanced sense.