What are the definitions of “bulk up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Gain weight, develop bigger muscles.
He's BULKED UP a lot since he got those steroids.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bulk up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb bulk up is to gain weight or develop bigger muscles, usually through exercise, diet, or supplements. It is often used when talking about bodybuilding or fitness goals.
What are the different verb forms of “bulk up”?
| Root Verb | bulk up |
| Third Person Singular Present | bulks up |
| Present Participle | bulking up |
| Simple Past | bulked up |
| Past Participle | bulked up |
Example
He wants to bulk up before the bodybuilding competition.
Example
She bulks up by lifting weights and eating a high-protein diet.
Example
He is bulking up by following a strict workout routine.
Example
Last year, he bulked up and gained 20 pounds of muscle.
Example
She has bulked up since she started her new workout program.
What kind of phrasal verb is “bulk up”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“bulk up” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
He bulked up after months of training.
Example
She bulked up by following a strict diet and exercise plan.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“bulk up” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
He bulked up after months of training.
Example
She bulked up by following a strict diet and exercise plan.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “bulk up”?
Good things to know
Does “bulk up” have an informal or formal tone?
Bulk up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in conversations about fitness, bodybuilding, or nutrition, but can also be used in other contexts, such as discussing resumes or stocking up on supplies.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “bulk up”?
Synonyms
- gain weight
- develop muscles
- build muscle
- increase muscle mass
- grow bigger
- get stronger
Antonyms
- lose weight
- slim down
- shed pounds
- decrease muscle mass
- get smaller
- get weaker
