1 C1 idiomatic formal
To speak disparagingly of something or someone in order to reduce their perceived value or importance.
"The critic spent the entire review crying down the author's latest novel."
separable
cry down
C1 formal separable transitive
To belittle, depreciate, or speak disparagingly of someone or something in order to reduce their value or reputation.
In plain English
To say bad things about something to make people think it is less important or valuable.
What does "cry down" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 idiomatic formal
To reduce the value or importance of something publicly, often to gain an advantage.
"Competitors tried to cry down the new product before it even reached the market."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To call ('cry') something down — to shout it down until its standing falls.
Actually means
To say bad things about something to make people think it is less important or valuable.
Usage tip
Formal and somewhat archaic. More common in older literature and formal writing. In everyday speech, 'put down', 'talk down', or 'belittle' are more natural alternatives.
Words that pair with "cry down"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
achievement work effort contribution rival opponent
How to conjugate "cry down"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
cry down
I/you/we/they
3rd person
cries down
he/she/it
Past simple
cried down
yesterday
Past participle
cried down
have + pp
-ing form
crying down
continuous
Hear "cry down" in the wild
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Other ways to say "cry down"
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