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runterkommen
to come down
To move down from a higher place.
example
Komm sofort vom Baum runter, das ist zu gefährlich!
Come down from the tree right now, that's too dangerous!
runterkommen
to come down / calm down / become run-down
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Runterkommen' (to come down) is a separable verb. The prefix 'runter' comes at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses, the verb stays together.
EXAMPLE
Bitte komm sofort vom Dach runter!
Please come down from the roof right now!
Perfect tense with 'sein'
Since 'runterkommen' (to come down/calm down/become run-down) describes movement or a change of state, the perfect tense is always formed with the auxiliary verb 'sein' (to be). A common source of mistakes is using 'haben' (to have).
EXAMPLE
Nach dem anstrengenden Tag bin ich auf dem Sofa endlich runtergekommen.
After the exhausting day, I finally calmed down on the sofa.
Colloquial form
The prefix 'runter' is the colloquial short form of 'herunter' (down). In a more formal text or conversation, you would use 'herunterkommen' (to come down).
EXAMPLE
Der Bergsteiger ist sicher vom Gipfel heruntergekommen.
The mountaineer came down safely from the summit.
Typical use
In the meaning 'sich beruhigen' (to calm down), the verb is often combined with the word 'wieder' (again): 'wieder runterkommen' (to calm down again). It describes the process of returning to inner calm after excitement or stress.
EXAMPLE
Atme tief durch, dann kommst du schnell wieder runter.
Take a deep breath, then you'll calm down again quickly.
Context: decline
When 'runterkommen' (to become run-down) describes decline, it usually refers to buildings, neighborhoods, or facilities. Here the verb has a clearly negative and derogatory meaning.
EXAMPLE
Seit der Schließung der Fabrik ist der ganze Stadtteil ziemlich runtergekommen.
Since the factory closed, the whole neighborhood has become pretty run-down.
Compare with
runterkommen vs abschalten
to switch off / to unwind
'abschalten' and 'runterkommen' can both mean that you become calmer and relax. 'abschalten' mainly means mentally distancing yourself from work, problems, or stress. 'runterkommen' is colloquial and fits especially when someone was previously very stressed, agitated, or angry. Learners may confuse the words because both are used after a tiring or intense moment. In practical terms: you use 'abschalten' to clear your head; you use 'runterkommen' when strong tension gradually decreases.
runterkommen
Nach dem Streit braucht Paul etwas Zeit, um wieder runterzukommen.
After the argument, Paul needs some time to calm down again.
abschalten
Vor der Reise möchte ich noch einen Abend zu Hause abschalten.
Before the trip, I want to spend one more evening unwinding at home.
In real life
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