downshift
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈdaʊnʃɪft/
KK: /ˈdaʊnʃɪft/
intransitive verb
Definition
To change to a lower gear in a vehicle or to slow down in speed or intensity.
Example
When driving uphill, it's important to downshift to maintain control of the car.
Tense Forms
Past: downshifted
Past Participle: downshifted
Conversation
I think you should downshift when you go around that curve.
Yeah, it helps to maintain control of the car.
Exactly! It makes the drive so much smoother too.
For sure, I always feel more relaxed when I do that.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
decelerate
reduce
shift
Antonyms
accelerate
increase
boost
transitive verb
Definition
To reduce speed, intensity, or rate, often used in the context of vehicles or communication.
Example
The driver decided to downshift to a lower gear to navigate the steep hill more easily.
Tense Forms
Past: downshifted
Past Participle: downshifted
Conversation
I decided to downshift my pace this week and focus on relaxation.
That sounds like a good plan! We all need a break sometimes.
Yeah, I just want to enjoy the little things without rushing.
Root Explanation
Downshift → It is formed from "down" (from Old English "dūn", meaning down or lower) and "shift" (from Old English "sciftan", meaning to move or change). The word "downshift" means to change to a lower gear or to reduce speed or intensity.
Memory Tip
Think of moving "down" to a "lower" gear or speed — that's what downshift means.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.