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dig down

B2 neutral intransitive
In simple words

To dig deeper into the ground, or to try harder and push yourself further than you thought you could.

Literal meaning: To use a digging tool in a downward direction.

Meanings

1 A2 neutral

To excavate further into the ground.

"We need to dig down another foot before we hit the water pipe."

2 B2 idiomatic neutral

To push oneself to find inner reserves of determination, effort, or money.

"In the final kilometre of the race, she had to really dig down to keep going."

3 B2 idiomatic informal

To spend more money than you initially intended, especially to cover unexpected costs.

"Fans will have to dig down deeper this year as ticket prices have risen again."

Usage notes

Used literally in gardening and construction. Figuratively used for pushing oneself further emotionally or financially (e.g., 'dig down deep'). The phrase 'dig deep' is more common than 'dig down' in figurative use.

Commonly used with

deep soil reserves pocket roots strength

Forms

Base
dig down
I/you/we/they
3rd person
digs down
he/she/it
Past simple
diged down
yesterday
Past participle
diged down
have + pp
-ing form
diging down
continuous

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