plonk down
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Verb (transitive or intransitive):
- To set or drop something down heavily, carelessly, or unceremoniously.
- To sit down or lower oneself heavily and abruptly.
Usage
This verb describes an action done with a lack of grace or care, often producing a dull, heavy sound (a "plonk"). It can be used with an object (transitive) or without one (intransitive). It is informal in register.
Examples
- Transitive (with an object):
- He plonked down the heavy suitcase and sighed with relief.
- She plonked a mug of coffee down on the table.
- Intransitive (without an object):
- After the long hike, I just plonked down on the nearest bench.
- The tired child plonked down in front of the television.
Advanced Usage
- The verb can imply a sense of finality, exhaustion, or mild irritation in the action.
- He plonked down the resignation letter on his boss's desk. (Implies a decisive, perhaps frustrated action.)
- It is often used in narrative or conversational English to create a vivid, informal image.
Variants and Related Words
- Plonk (verb): The base form, meaning to put something down heavily or to sit down heavily. "He just plonked himself in the chair."
- Plunk down (verb): A near-identical synonym with the same meaning and usage. "She plunked down the money for the ticket."
Synonyms
- Drop: To let something fall. (Less specific about the manner.)
- Flop: To sit or lie down in a relaxed, heavy way. (Often implies a more boneless collapse.)
- Plump: To set or drop down suddenly or heavily.
- Slam: To put down with force and noise. (Can imply more anger.)
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Plonk down is itself a phrasal verb. Its structure is Verb + Particle (Down). The particle "down" is essential to the meaning of setting or dropping heavily.
Related Idioms
- Plonk something down: This is the standard form of the idiom itself. It is not typically part of a larger figurative expression.
Verb
- drop heavily