The phrase "gave lowdown" refers to someone giving information or details about a particular subject. The word "lowdown" is pronounced /ˈloʊdaʊn/ and is spelled with a silent "w". The "ow" sound in the middle of the word is pronounced as a diphthong, meaning it combines two vowel sounds, /oʊ/ and /aʊ/. The "d" and "n" at the end of the word are pronounced as separate consonant sounds. So, when someone "gives lowdown", they are providing valuable insight or knowledge about a situation.
The expression "gave lowdown" is an idiomatic phrase that refers to the act of providing detailed or accurate information about a particular subject or situation. The term "gave" implies the act of divulging or communicating this information, while "lowdown" conveys the idea of providing insights, details, or the complete picture.
When someone "gives lowdown," they are typically offering valuable or inside knowledge that sheds light on a topic or clarifies a situation. This information can be factual, explanatory, or even confidential, offering a comprehensive understanding of the matter at hand.
The phrase is commonly used in informal or colloquial contexts, typically to emphasize the informer's credibility or to highlight the importance and relevance of the information being shared. For instance, if someone is asked about the latest rumors regarding a celebrity's personal life, responding with "I'll give you the lowdown" means providing accurate or firsthand knowledge that may not be widely known.
In essence, "gave lowdown" indicates the act of sharing detailed, reliable information that offers a comprehensive understanding of a subject or situation. It conveys the idea of providing insights or facts that help others to be well-informed, knowledgeable, or make informed decisions based on the information provided.
The phrase "gave lowdown" doesn't have a specific etymology, as it is composed of two separate words or expressions: "gave" and "lowdown". Here's the breakdown of each:
1. "Gave" is the past tense of the verb "give", which originated from the Old English word "giefan". There is no notable origin story for "give" as it has ancient roots and has been present in various forms across Germanic languages.
2. "Lowdown" is a noun used to describe the essential, detailed, or inside information about a particular situation or person. Its exact origin is uncertain, but it likely comes from African American Vernacular English (AAVE) or African American slang, which developed during the 19th and 20th centuries.