The phrase "gives lowdown" is spelled with an initial /g/ that is pronounced as a voiced velar plosive, followed by /ɪvz/, which represents the third person singular present tense of the verb "give". The word "lowdown" contains the vowel sound /aʊ/, which is a diphthong made up of the sounds /a/ and /ʊ/. The transcription for "lowdown" is /ˈloʊdaʊn/. Together, the phrase "gives lowdown" is pronounced as /ˈɡɪvz ˈloʊdaʊn/ and means to provide information or details about a particular situation or topic.
"Gives lowdown" is an idiomatic expression commonly used in informal contexts, and it refers to the act of providing detailed and accurate information about a specific topic or situation. In essence, it means to impart all the necessary facts, details, or inside knowledge related to a particular subject.
The term "gives lowdown" can be understood as a figurative expression originating from American English. It implies that the person who "gives lowdown" is offering a comprehensive account or briefing, often in a candid and straightforward manner.
When someone "gives lowdown," they are sharing relevant insights, tips, or explanations that aid in understanding a subject more thoroughly. It can involve unraveling the complexities of a specific issue, revealing hidden aspects, or disclosing essential information that may not be readily available to others. This expression is particularly used when discussing the latest news, gossip, updates, or background details about various topics, such as events, people, trends, or situations.
The phrase "gives lowdown" implies a certain level of objectivity and credibility, suggesting that the information provided is reliable, well-researched, or obtained from trusted sources. It also connotes a sense of being well-informed or knowledgeable about the subject matter.
In summary, "gives lowdown" is an idiomatic expression that signifies the action of furnishing accurate and detailed information about a specific topic, typically in a candid and informative manner.
The phrase "gives lowdown" consists of two parts: "gives" and "lowdown".
The word "give" in this context means to provide or convey information. Its etymology can be traced back to Old English, where it was derived from the Proto-Germanic word "geban".
The term "lowdown" is believed to have originated in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) during the early 20th century. Its exact etymology is uncertain, but it is commonly thought to be a combination of the words "low" and "down".
In AAVE, "low" refers to something that is hidden or not widely known, while "down" means detailed or comprehensive information. As a result, "lowdown" came to mean giving or receiving detailed or inside information about a particular situation or topic.