Dress down Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To wear casual or less formal clothes than usual. It can also mean to scold or criticize someone strongly, especially in an informal way.
Usage & Nuances
Often used for workplaces with 'dress-down Fridays' (casual dress allowed). As a phrasal verb, 'dress down' for clothes is neutral-informal. The scolding sense is informal and often used with people in authority (e.g. boss 'dressed down' an employee). Don't confuse with 'dress up' (wear more formal clothing).
Example Sentences
We can dress down for the party tonight.
basic
On Fridays, employees are allowed to dress down at work.
basic
The coach dressed down the players after the bad game.
basic
I like to dress down on weekends when I’m just relaxing at home.
natural
Don’t dress down too much; it’s still a business meeting.
natural
My boss really dressed me down in front of everyone for that mistake.
natural