Translation guide
The English phrase "throw down" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses: to throw something downward, to challenge someone, to contribute money, and to perform energetically. It also includes related Japanese expressions for each sense.
Expressing the physical action of throwing something from a higher place to a lower place, or throwing something onto the ground.
Literally 'throw and drop'. Used for throwing something down from a height.
He threw down the key from the window.
Similar to 投げ落とす, but emphasizes throwing down to someone below.
I threw down the luggage from the roof.
To throw something forcefully onto the ground, often in anger.
He angrily threw his racket down on the ground.
To fling or toss something down casually.
He threw his bag down on the floor.
Issuing a challenge, often in a confrontational or competitive context. 'Throw down the gauntlet' is a related idiom.
General term for 'to challenge'. Can be used in sports, games, or fights.
He threw down a challenge to the champion.
To challenge someone to a match or contest. More confrontational nuance.
Literally 'to sell a fight'. Means to pick a fight or provoke someone. Very direct and colloquial.
To challenge someone to a duel. Historical or dramatic context.
To put money into a common fund, such as for a shared meal, gift, or bet. Often used in casual contexts like 'throw down some cash'.
General phrase for 'to put out money' or contribute funds.
Let's all throw down a little money.
From 'campaign', means to chip in or make a small donation, often for a party or gift.
We all threw down for a birthday present.
To split the bill equally. Implies everyone throws down their share.
Let's throw down equally for the meal.
To do something impressively, especially in sports, music, or dance. 'Throw down' can mean to execute a powerful move or performance.
To show an amazing play. Used in sports contexts.
He threw down an amazing play in the game.
Specifically for basketball: to slam dunk. Often used when someone 'throws down' a dunk.
He threw down a powerful dunk.
To give a passionate performance. Can be used for music, dance, etc.
The band threw down a hot performance.
The English idiom 'throw down the gauntlet' does not translate literally into Japanese. Use 挑戦する or 勝負を挑む instead. A direct translation like ガントレットを投げる would not be understood.
Because 'throw down' has many meanings, always consider the situation. If you mean 'throw something downward', use 投げ落とす. For challenges, use 挑戦する. For contributing money, use お金を出す.
He threw down the gauntlet to his rival.
That guy threw down with me (tried to start a fight).
He threw down a challenge to a duel.