1. to shift a motor vehicle into a lower gear
2. to move to a less demanding job or lifestyle
Usage: informal

1. the act of shifting to a lower gear
2. a move to a simpler or less stressful way of life
Usage: informal

Examples

• She had to downshift when going up the steep hill.
• The truck driver downshifted before entering the curve.
• After years of corporate stress, he decided to downshift to a small-town teaching job.
• Many professionals are choosing to downshift for better work-life balance.
• The downshift was smooth and quiet.
• Her career downshift allowed more time with family.
• You should downshift before braking on ice.
• The economic downshift affected many industries.