slow down — 2 meanings

One phrase, 2 different jobs. Tap a meaning to jump to it — then lock each one in by saying it out loud.

phrasal verb2 meanings

1 reduce speedTo move or do something more slowly, especially to avoid danger or because you are told to.
2 become less activeTo do things at a more relaxed pace, or to become less busy or energetic.

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Ordered by how often you'll hear each one — the meaning tells you what it does, the examples and tips show it in use.

reduce speed

B1slow downMost common

To move or do something more slowly, especially to avoid danger or because you are told to.

You should slow down when driving through a school zone.

A: You're driving a bit fast.
B: Oh, sorry! I'll slow down.

If I notice someone tailgating me on the highway, I usually slow down to let them pass safely.

Common mistake

✗You should slow down your speed.

✓You should slow down.

'Slow down' already means reduce speed — 'slow down your speed' is redundant.

Tell it apart

Slow down, you're driving too fast.

reduce speed

Slow down, you're working too hard.

take it easier — sense 2

You can use 'slow down' for people, vehicles, or activities when you want them to go at a lower speed.Not the same as 'stop'—it just means to reduce speed.

Often paired with

slow down + context

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become less active

B2slow down

To do things at a more relaxed pace, or to become less busy or energetic.

After working so much, I realized I needed to slow down and take care of myself.

A: You look exhausted.
B: Yeah, I think I need to slow down a bit.

Many people believe that it's important to slow down and enjoy life rather than always rushing from one thing to another.

Common mistake

✗I need to slow down my life.

✓I need to slow down a bit.

In this sense 'slow down' stands alone — no object like 'my life'.

Tell it apart

I'm trying to slow down and enjoy life.

live less frantically

Slow down, you're going too fast.

reduce speed — sense 1

You can use 'slow down' when talking about life, work, or routines—not just movement.Different from 'take a break', which means to stop for a while. 'Slow down' means to keep going, but more gently.

Often paired with

slow down + life

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reduce speed become less active