shorten down
B1 informal separable transitive
In simple words
To make something shorter
Literal meaning: To make shorter in a downward direction — semi-transparent
Meanings
1 B1 informal
To reduce the physical length of something, such as a piece of clothing or a rope
"The tailor shortened down the curtains so they wouldn't drag on the floor."
Grammar: separable
2 B1 informal
To reduce the length of a piece of text, a speech, or a programme
"Can you shorten down this report? The director wants it to fit on one page."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
Less common than simply 'shorten'. The particle 'down' adds emphasis on the reduction. Used with garments, text, speeches, and other things that have measurable length. Regional variation: more common in British and Irish English.
Commonly used with
hem trousers skirt essay speech rope curtains
Forms
Base
shorten down
I/you/we/they
3rd person
shortens down
he/she/it
Past simple
shortened down
yesterday
Past participle
shortened down
have + pp
-ing form
shortening down
continuous
Understand "shorten down" better
Try:
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "shorten down" on Looplines