1 B1 idiomatic informal
To make a quick, casual visit to a nearby place, especially one that is geographically lower or further south.
"I'm just going to pop down to the corner shop — do you need anything?"
inseparable
pop down
B1 informal inseparable intransitive
To go somewhere quickly, especially to a place nearby or to a lower floor.
In plain English
To quickly go to a nearby place or go downstairs for a short time.
What does "pop down" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 A2 informal
To go downstairs quickly for a short time.
"Can you pop down and check if the post has arrived?"
inseparable
3 B1 idiomatic informal
To write or note something down quickly on a surface or document.
"Just pop your name down on the list and we'll call you when it's ready."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
'Pop' suggests a quick, light movement; 'down' indicates going to a lower place or southward direction — giving a sense of a swift, brief trip.
Actually means
To quickly go to a nearby place or go downstairs for a short time.
Usage tip
Primarily informal British English. The 'down' often means literally downstairs or to a place south of or below the speaker's current location. Implies the trip is brief and casual. Also used to mean writing something briefly ('pop something down on paper').
Words that pair with "pop down"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
shop pub town market stairs quickly
How to conjugate "pop down"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
pop down
I/you/we/they
3rd person
pops down
he/she/it
Past simple
poped down
yesterday
Past participle
poped down
have + pp
-ing form
poping down
continuous
Hear "pop down" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "pop down" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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