What are the definitions of “bitch up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Spoil or ruin something.
I BITCHED UP the interview.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bitch up”?
The phrasal verb bitch up means to spoil or ruin something, often due to a mistake or poor performance. It is used to describe situations where something goes wrong or does not go as planned.
What are the different verb forms of “bitch up”?
| Root Verb | bitch up |
| Third Person Singular Present | bitches up |
| Present Participle | bitching up |
| Simple Past | bitched up |
| Past Participle | bitched up |
Example
I hope I don't bitch up my presentation tomorrow.
Example
She always bitches up her chances by arriving late.
Example
He is bitching up the project by not following the instructions.
Example
They bitched up the party by inviting too many people.
Example
The cake was bitched up because I forgot to add sugar.
What kind of phrasal verb is “bitch 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.)
Transitive verb
“bitch up” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
I bitched up the interview by arriving late.
Example
She bitched up her chances of getting the job.
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
“bitch 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
I bitched up the interview by arriving late.
Example
She bitched up her chances of getting the job.
Good things to know
Does “bitch up” have an informal or formal tone?
Bitch up is considered informal and may be considered offensive or inappropriate in some contexts. It is not recommended for use in formal settings or with people you do not know well. Instead, use more neutral terms like 'mess up' or 'ruin' to convey the same meaning.