chalk down
B2 informal separable transitive
In simple words
To write something down so you don't forget it, like making a quick note.
Literal meaning: To write something down using chalk — as on a pub chalkboard for orders or scores.
Meanings
1 B2 informal
To write something down quickly, often as a temporary record.
"The barman chalked down our drinks order on the board behind him."
Grammar: separable
2 B2
idiomatic
informal
To attribute or assign something to a cause or category (less common variant of 'chalk up').
"She chalked it down to bad luck and moved on."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
Less common than 'chalk up' or 'write down'. Mostly used in British English informal contexts. Can imply a temporary or tentative record.
Commonly used with
order score note name number detail
Forms
Base
chalk down
I/you/we/they
3rd person
chalks down
he/she/it
Past simple
chalked down
yesterday
Past participle
chalked down
have + pp
-ing form
chalking down
continuous
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Synonyms
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