Browse all

buff down

B2 neutral separable transitive
In simple words

To rub a surface to make it smoother, usually with a cloth or polishing tool.

Literal meaning: To rub (buff) in a downward or reducing direction to smooth something.

Meanings

1 B2 neutral

To smooth or reduce a surface using a buffing pad or abrasive material.

"You'll need to buff down the clear coat before applying the final layer."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

Used in car bodywork, woodworking, and metalworking. Refers to reducing an uneven surface to a smoother state before further finishing. Less common than 'buff out' or 'buff up.'

Commonly used with

surface paintwork metal wood scratch finish

Forms

Base
buff down
I/you/we/they
3rd person
buffs down
he/she/it
Past simple
buffed down
yesterday
Past participle
buffed down
have + pp
-ing form
buffing down
continuous

Understand "buff down" better

Try:

Real video examples

Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.

Synonyms

Want to master this phrasal verb?

Practice "buff down" on Looplines