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swear down

C1 slang inseparable intransitive
In simple words

To promise very strongly that something is absolutely true, especially when someone doesn't believe you.

Literal meaning: To swear (something) down (emphatically, pressing it upon the listener).

Meanings

1 C1 idiomatic slang

To insist very emphatically that something is true, especially when the listener is skeptical.

"'You actually met him at the café?' 'Yeah, swear down, he was just sitting there on his own.'"

Grammar: inseparable
2 C1 idiomatic slang

Used as a standalone exclamation to assert one's honesty or to express emphatic agreement that something is true.

"'Did he really say that?' — 'Swear down! I couldn't believe it either.'"

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Primarily British urban slang, especially London. Common among younger speakers and in informal conversation. Used as an emphatic assertion of honesty when the speaker feels they are not being believed. Often used as a standalone exclamation: 'Swear down!'

Commonly used with

truth story claim fact word it

Forms

Base
swear down
I/you/we/they
3rd person
swears down
he/she/it
Past simple
sweared down
yesterday
Past participle
sweared down
have + pp
-ing form
swearing down
continuous

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