Turn down Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈtɝn/ /ˈdaʊn

TURN-down

UK

tˈɜːn/ /dˈaʊn

TERN-down

Definition

To refuse an offer or request, or to make something lower in amount or intensity, such as volume or lights.

Usage & Nuances

Commonly used for politely refusing invitations or offers ('turn down an invitation'). Also used for reducing volume, heat, or light ('turn down the music'). In formal settings, 'decline' may be preferred when refusing. Do not confuse with 'turn up' (increase).

• Spanish: rechazar - bajar (el volumen, la intensidad)
• Portuguese (BR): rejeitar - diminuir (volume, intensidade)
• Portuguese (PT): recusar - baixar (volume, intensidade)
• Chinese (Simplified): 拒绝 - 调低（音量、强度）
• Chinese (Traditional): 拒絕 - 調低（音量、強度）
• Hindi: इंकार करना - कम करना (आवाज़, तीव्रता)
• Arabic: يرفض - يخفض (الصوت أو الشدة)
• Bengali: প্রস্তাব প্রত্যাখ্যান করা - কমিয়ে দেওয়া
• Russian: отклонить - убавить
• Japanese: 断る - 下げる
• Vietnamese: từ chối - vặn nhỏ
• Korean: 거절하다 - 줄이다
• Turkish: reddetmek - kısmak
• Urdu: انکار کرنا - کم کرنا
• Indonesian: menolak - menurunkan

Example Sentences

Please turn down the music. It's too loud.

basic

She turned down the job offer.

basic

Can you turn down the lights? It's too bright in here.

basic

I can't believe he turned down such a great opportunity.

natural

Could you turn down the heat a bit? It's getting really warm.

natural

She politely turned down my invitation to dinner.

natural