Grammar fix
nail down
finalise/agree on something precisely
to make something certain or definite, especially after discussing or negotiating details; to agree on the exact details of something
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
- We still need to nail down the exact date for the conference before we can send out invitations.work
- In my opinion, it's important to nail down the main points of your essay before you start writing, as it helps you stay focused and organised.IELTS speaking
Fix the pattern
Pattern: nail down + noun (plan/arrangement/date/decision)
WrongLet's nail down on a date.
RightLet's nail down a date.
'Nail down' takes the object directly — no 'on'.
Patternnail down + noun (plan/arrangement/date/decision)
Use it right
Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.
'Nail down' is the natural business verb for pinning specifics; the formal version is wordy.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
nail down + specificsthe detailsa datethe budgetexactly what
Don't confuse it
This sense is figurative and refers to finalising or making something certain, not the literal act of attaching something with nails. It is more precise than simply 'deciding'—it suggests confirming details after some negotiation.