to be mainly a question of one thing, or to be reduced to an essential point
to really be about one main thing
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
to be determined by a particular factor
"The final decision may come down to cost."
In the end, it comes down to a simple choice, really. Get busy living, or get busy dying.
— The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
to be reduced to the most basic meaning or point
"Their argument comes down to who should take responsibility."
to move downward until reaching something
to really be about one main thing
Very common in speech and writing. Often followed by a noun phrase or -ing form.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Listen to native speakers using "come down to" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.