THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
Down to earth
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
Practical and sensible; when describing a person, also friendly and unpretentious.
Usage note: keep in mind
Down-to-earth describes someone practical and sensible, often also approachable and unpretentious. Use hyphens before a noun, as in a down-to-earth explanation. It can be a compliment, and it does not mean that a person has no imagination or ambition.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- She’s rich but very down to earth.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
Try the question without looking back, then write a sentence of your own. You can retry as often as you like.
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Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
She’s rich but very ________.
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Down to earth — Practical and sensible; when describing a person, also friendly and unpretentious.
Try your own sentence (optional)
Make it yours
Write one sentence using “Down to earth” about your own life.
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Does your sentence match this meaning?
Practical and sensible; when describing a person, also friendly and unpretentious.
Compare: She’s rich but very down to earth.
Check the spelling and how the expression fits the sentence. Your example can be different.
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More ways to understand and use it
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More examples in context
- Our new manager is down-to-earth and explains decisions in ordinary language.
- The guide gives down-to-earth advice about planning a realistic study routine.
Check your understanding
Which description fits: offering practical suggestions that people can use, or discussing only impossible plans?
Check your answer
Offering practical suggestions. Down-to-earth focuses on a realistic and accessible approach, not on a person's social status.
Use it in your own words
Write one new situation where down to earth fits. Explain the situation in plain English first, then rewrite it using the expression. Check that the tone and meaning suit your audience.