cry down: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘cry down’ mean?
The idiom "cry down" means to speak negatively or disparage, often in an attempt to undermine someone or something. It is typically used when someone tries to devalue or criticize another person's ideas, achievements, or reputation.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "talk down" means to communicate with someone in a condescending or patronizing manner, using a tone or language that makes the other person feel inferior or belittled.
The idiom "let down" means to disappoint or fail to fulfill someone's expectations or hopes.
The idiom "knock down a peg" means to humble or deflate someone's ego or pride. It is used when someone's self-importance or arrogance needs to be brought down to a more reasonable level.
The idiom "knock down" means to forcefully bring someone or something to the ground. It can also refer to reducing the price or value of something significantly.
The idiom "kick someone when they are down" means to take advantage of someone's vulnerable state or exploit their weakness for personal gain or to further harm them.
The idiom "jump down someone's throat" means to angrily and aggressively criticize or confront someone about something they have said or done.
The idiom "hit someone when they are down" means to take advantage of or attack someone when they are already in a vulnerable or weakened state.
The idiom "hang low" means to appear sad or dejected, often with drooping body posture or a downcast expression.
Hang low is an idiomatic phrase that dates back to the early 16th century. It has its origins in the English language and has been used to convey a particular meaning in various contexts. The phrase is associated with a physical action of suspending something low, but it has evolved to acquire metaphorical connotations in different situations.
The idiom "grind down" means to wear or weaken someone mentally or physically through prolonged stress or pressure. It refers to the idea of gradually eroding someone's energy, willpower, or spirit over time.
Decoding the Enigma
The idiom "cry down" is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It is typically used to describe the act of criticizing or speaking negatively about someone or something. The origins of this idiom are not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in the 17th century and has been in use ever since.
One possible interpretation of the phrase is that it comes from the literal act of crying or weeping in a negative manner, which can symbolize disapproval or dissatisfaction. Another possible origin is from the English legal system, where the phrase "cry down" referred to challenging the validity or credibility of a legal claim or witness.
In contemporary usage, "cry down" is often used to describe intentionally belittling or disparaging someone or something for personal or political gain. It can be used in various contexts, such as criticizing a political candidate to undermine their popularity or speaking negatively about a new product to discourage potential buyers. This is similar to the idiom "talk down" where one uses negative language to criticize or belittle someone or something.
Furthermore, "cry down" is typically used in a figurative sense rather than a literal one. The act of "crying down" does not involve actual tears or sobbing, but rather refers to expressing negative opinions or criticism in a vocal or public manner. It can be compared to the idiom "jump down someone's throat" where one aggressively criticizes or confronts someone without provocation.
It is important to note that the idiom "cry down" is commonly used in everyday conversation, particularly in the media and the political sphere. It is often employed as a rhetorical device to influence public opinion and shape narratives. However, its usage can vary depending on the context and the speaker's intentions. In some cases, it may be used to discredit or undermine someone's reputation, similar to the idiom "knock down".
The idiom "hang low" can also be related to "cry down" as it refers to keeping a low profile or not drawing attention to oneself. When someone is being criticized or spoken negatively about, they may choose to "hang low" and avoid engaging in the conversation. This can be a protective measure to protect one's reputation or to avoid further criticism. However, it is important to distinguish "cry down" from "hang low" as they have different connotations and implications.
The idiom "cry down" has a long history and is widely used in the English language. Its meaning revolves around the act of criticizing or speaking negatively about someone or something. While its precise origins may be unclear, its usage and significance in contemporary society cannot be denied. The idiom reflects the complexities of human communication and the power of language to shape perceptions and influence behavior.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "cry down" can be used in a sentence:
- She cried down her opponent's proposals during the debate, trying to discredit their effectiveness.
- The critics attempted to cry down the talented artist's latest work, but it was well-received by the public.
- He constantly cries down his colleagues' ideas in meetings, making it difficult for them to present new concepts.
More "Criticism" idioms
