1 C1 idiomatic formal
To attack or suppress something by means of preaching, moralising speeches, or persistent condemnation.
"The reformers tried to preach down gambling and alcohol consumption in the towns."
inseparable
preach down
C1 formal inseparable transitive
To use sermons, speeches, or moral argument to condemn or suppress something or someone.
In plain English
To try to get people to reject or look down on something by giving strong, preachy speeches against it.
What does "preach down" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
Preaching in a downward direction — literally talking from a raised pulpit down to the congregation, extended to mean using that authority to condemn.
Actually means
To try to get people to reject or look down on something by giving strong, preachy speeches against it.
Usage tip
Somewhat archaic. Originally used in religious contexts — a preacher using the pulpit to condemn certain practices or groups. Now occasionally used in broader contexts to criticise anyone who uses moralising rhetoric to suppress opposition. Rare in everyday speech.
Words that pair with "preach down"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
sin vice opposition dissent clergy morality
How to conjugate "preach down"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
preach down
I/you/we/they
3rd person
preaches down
he/she/it
Past simple
preached down
yesterday
Past participle
preached down
have + pp
-ing form
preaching down
continuous
Hear "preach down" in the wild
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Other ways to say "preach down"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
condemn decry denounce inveigh against rail against
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