What are the definitions of “fasten down”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Tie something so that it doesn't move.
We FASTENED it DOWN to keep the wind from blowing it away.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “fasten down”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fasten down is to tie or secure something so that it doesn't move or come loose. This is often done to prevent an object from being blown away by the wind or to keep it in place during transportation.
What are the different verb forms of “fasten down”?
| Root Verb | fasten down |
| Third Person Singular Present | fastens down |
| Present Participle | fastening down |
| Simple Past | fastened down |
| Past Participle | fastened down |
Example
Before the storm, we fastened down the outdoor furniture.
Example
He fastens down the tarp to protect the wood from rain.
Example
She is fastening down the tent to keep it secure during the night.
Example
They fastened down the boat before the high tide came in.
Example
The cargo was fastened down securely in the truck.
What kind of phrasal verb is “fasten down”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“fasten down” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She fastened down the tarp to protect the wood.
Example
He fastened the tent down before the storm.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“fasten down” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She fastened down the tarp to protect the wood.
Example
He fastened the tent down before the storm.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “fasten down”?
Fasten down the hatches
A phrase used to prepare for a difficult situation or to secure everything before a storm.
Example
The storm is coming; we need to fasten down the hatches and make sure everything is secure.
Good things to know
Does “fasten down” have an informal or formal tone?
Fasten down is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as written instructions or safety guidelines.
