Shadowing Practice: Phrasal verb prepositions: DOWN part 05: DOWN means NOT FUNCTIONING - Learn English Speaking with Video

In this lesson, you’ll practice phrasal verbs where "down" means "not functioning"—a common usage in daily conversations. You’ll learn how to describe broken engines, crashed computers, and closed stores using natural phrases, and get tips to practice speaking them fluently with shadowing.

Key Vocabulary & Phrases

• Breaks down: When a machine stops working (e.g., "My car breaks down every week").
• Goes down: For systems or services that stop functioning (e.g., "The Wi-Fi goes down during storms").
• Closes down: When a business stops operating permanently (e.g., "The old café closed down last year").
• Stop functioning: The core meaning of "down" in these phrases.
• Permanently: A key nuance in "closes down" (not just temporary).

Practice Tips for Shadowing Success

The video’s tone is friendly and slow, making it perfect for shadowing—repeat each phrase right after the speaker to mimic rhythm and stress. Start by pausing after "The car breaks down" and copy the natural "break-DOWN" emphasis. For "The computer system goes down," focus on the smooth transition between "goes" and "down" (no pause!). Use a shadowing site to record yourself and compare—you’ll notice how "closes down" sounds different from just "closes" (longer, more final). Shadowing helps you internalize these phrases so they feel automatic, not forced. Try shadowing the dialogue 3-5 times, then make up your own sentences: "My phone breaks down when it’s cold" or "The library might close down." The more you practice, the easier it is to use these phrasal verbs in real life.

Whether you’re talking about tech issues or local businesses, mastering "down" as "not functioning" will make your English sound more natural. Grab a partner or use a shadow speak tool—you’ve got this!

דקדוק בסרטון הזה

המבנים שהדובר משתמש בהם הכי הרבה, עם המילים המדויקות מהסרטון: