Definition of Fall (meaning 1 of 4 — verb)
Quick Meaning of Fall
To move down toward the ground, usually by accident.
Detailed Definition of Fall
To move downward quickly and uncontrollably, often due to loss of balance or gravity.
How to Pronounce Fall
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: Rhymes with 'call' and 'wall'. The 'al' sounds like 'aw'.
Other Meanings of Fall
“Fall” has 4 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 3:
#2 Fall as a noun
When someone or something drops suddenly from a higher place to a lower one.
have a fall
#3 Fall as a noun
The time of year when it gets cooler, leaves turn red and gold, and trees lose their leaves.
fall leaves
#4 Fall as a verb
When something becomes less in number or drops in price.
fall in price
How to Use Fall in a Sentence
Each example shows “fall” in the meaning “To move down toward the ground, usually by…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“I will fall if I do not hold the railing.”
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“Be careful not to fall on the icy sidewalk.”
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“Leaves fall from the trees in autumn.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Fall
Common Synonyms for Fall
Smart Synonyms for Fall — When to Use Each
- drop
- for objects falling straight down due to gravity
- tumble
- for falling with loss of balance or rolling
Antonyms of Fall
Common Collocations with Fall
These phrases pair with “fall” in everyday English:
- fall down
- fall asleep
- fall in love
- fall behind
- take a fall
Common Mistakes When Using Fall
Even fluent speakers slip up with “fall”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: He fall down and hurt his knee.
- ✓ Correct: He fell down and hurt his knee.
- Why: Third person singular needs 'fell' (past tense), not 'fall'. Or present: 'He falls'.
- ✗ Wrong: She is fall from the ladder.
- ✓ Correct: She fell from the ladder. / She is falling from the ladder.
- Why: Use simple past 'fell' for completed action, or present continuous 'is falling'.
Other Forms of Fall
Frequently Asked Questions About Fall
What is the meaning of "Fall"?
To move down toward the ground, usually by accident.
How do you pronounce "Fall"?
The IPA is /fɔːl/. Rhymes with 'call' and 'wall'. The 'al' sounds like 'aw'.
What part of speech is "Fall"?
"Fall" is a verb at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Fall"?
Common synonyms include drop, descend, tumble.
How do you use "Fall" in a sentence?
For example: "I will fall if I do not hold the railing."