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."
separable
chalk down
B2 informal separable transitive
To record or note something down, often quickly or provisionally.
In plain English
To write something down so you don't forget it, like making a quick note.
What does "chalk down" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To write something down using chalk — as on a pub chalkboard for orders or scores.
Actually means
To write something down so you don't forget it, like making a quick note.
Usage tip
Less common than 'chalk up' or 'write down'. Mostly used in British English informal contexts. Can imply a temporary or tentative record.
Words that pair with "chalk down"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
order score note name number detail
How to conjugate "chalk down"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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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