BROUGHT DOWN Meaning and
Definition
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Brought down is a phrasal verb that can be used in different contexts with slightly varying meanings. One interpretation of brought down is the act of causing something or someone to fall, collapse, or descend from a higher position or state. It implies reducing or lowering something, often through deliberate or forceful action. For example, "The earthquake brought down several buildings," conveys the idea that the seismic event caused these structures to collapse or fall to the ground.
Another usage of brought down is in relation to weakening or diminishing someone's position or status. In this case, it typically involves undermining or discrediting a person, group, or entity. For instance, "The leaked scandalous photos brought down the politician's career," suggests that the compromising images significantly damaged the politician's reputation, leading to the end of their political career.
Moreover, brought down can depict the act of causing someone or something to become unhappy, sad, or depressed. It embodies the idea of lowering someone's emotional state. For example, "The news of her friend's death brought her down," signifies that the news deeply saddened or depressed her.
Overall, brought down is a versatile phrasal verb that encompasses different aspects of causing something or someone to fall, weaken, or depress. Its meaning and usage vary depending on the context in which it is employed.
Etymology of BROUGHT DOWN
The term "brought down" consists of two words: "brought" and "down". Here are the etymologies of each:
1. Brought: The past participle of the verb "bring".
- Middle English: "broughte"
- Old English: "brōhte"
2. Down: A preposition and adverb that indicates movement or position below something.
- Middle English: "doun"
- Old English: "dūne"
Therefore, the etymology of "brought down" is the combination of the Old English "brōhte" and "dūne", which ultimately formed the Middle English "broughte doun".
Idioms with the word BROUGHT DOWN
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be brought down a notch (or two)
The idiom "be brought down a notch (or two)" means to humble someone or to cause someone to become less arrogant, proud, or conceited. It implies that a person's ego or sense of superiority is diminished, usually through criticism, failure, or a humbling experience.
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be brought down a peg (or two)
The idiom "be brought down a peg (or two)" means to be humbled or made to feel less important, typically after acting arrogant, proud, or overconfident. It refers to a metaphorical tiered ranking system, where being "brought down a peg" implies a lowering or reduction in rank, status, or ego.
