Lowdown: meaning, definitions and examples

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lowdown

 

[ ˈloʊˌdaʊn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

general information

The term 'lowdown' refers to the essential or most important details about a particular situation, event, or person. It is often used in informal contexts to mean an insider's perspective or the basic facts that one should know. When someone says they want the lowdown on a topic, they are asking for a succinct and straightforward summary. This word can encapsulate both highlights and crucial information that can aid in understanding the larger picture.

Synonyms

details, information, overview, summary

Examples of usage

  • Give me the lowdown on the new project.
  • I need the lowdown about the meeting tomorrow.
  • Can you provide me with the lowdown on your trip?
  • She shared the lowdown on the latest gossip.

Translations

Translations of the word "lowdown" in other languages:

🇵🇹 informação

🇮🇳 जानकारी

🇩🇪 Information

🇮🇩 informasi

🇺🇦 інформація

🇵🇱 informacja

🇯🇵 情報

🇫🇷 information

🇪🇸 información

🇹🇷 bilgi

🇰🇷 정보

🇸🇦 معلومات

🇨🇿 informace

🇸🇰 informácie

🇨🇳 信息

🇸🇮 informacije

🇮🇸 upplýsingar

🇰🇿 ақпарат

🇬🇪 ინფორმაცია

🇦🇿 məlumat

🇲🇽 información

Etymology

The word 'lowdown' originated in the United States in the early 20th century, emerging from the vernacular to describe an insider's account or a detailed explanation of a situation. Its roots can be traced to the combination of 'low', which conveys something humble or basic, and 'down', which indicates a thoroughness or completeness. The term is thought to have gained popularity through its usage in journalism and social circles, where people sought to understand the significant aspects of unfolding events or personal stories. Throughout the decades, 'lowdown' has remained in informal language, often associated with gossip or valuable information that isn't commonly known. Its usage reflects a cultural penchant for direct and frank communication, especially in contexts where clarity and straightforwardness are valued.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,943, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.