talk down to — to speak to someone as if they are less intelligent
phrasal verbB2IELTS 6+neutraloccasional
To speak to someone in a way that makes them feel less intelligent or important, as if you think you are better than them.
Say it like a native
Textbook He addresses his subordinates in a condescending manner.
Native He talks down to his staff.
'Talk down to' is the everyday way to name condescension; 'addresses in a condescending manner' is formal.
Pattern: talk down to someone
In use
- I don't like it when people talk down to me just because I'm younger.communication
- In my opinion, it's important for teachers not to talk down to their students, because everyone deserves respect in the classroom.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ Don't talk down me.
✓ Don't talk down to me.
Don't drop 'to' — 'talk down TO' someone.
Common collocations
talk down to— to, staff, customers, constantly
Don't confuse it
Not the same as 'talk to' (just speaking) or 'talk over' (interrupting). 'Talk down to' is about attitude.