What are the definitions of “block up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Fill a space so that nothing can pass.
The pipe's BLOCKED UP and no water gets through.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “block up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb block up is to fill a space or an opening so that nothing can pass through it. This can refer to a pipe, a road, or any other passage that can be obstructed.
What are the different verb forms of “block up”?
| Root Verb | block up |
| Third Person Singular Present | blocks up |
| Present Participle | blocking up |
| Simple Past | blocked up |
| Past Participle | blocked up |
Example
We need to block up the hole in the wall.
Example
He blocks up the entrance to keep the cold air out.
Example
She is blocking up the gaps in the fence.
Example
They blocked up the road with their protest.
Example
The pipe was blocked up with debris.
What kind of phrasal verb is “block 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
“block 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
She blocked up the hole in the wall.
Example
He blocked the entrance up to keep the cold air out.
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
“block 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
She blocked up the hole in the wall.
Example
He blocked the entrance up to keep the cold air out.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “block up”?
Block up a road
To obstruct the passage of vehicles or pedestrians on a road.
Example
The construction work blocked up the road, causing a traffic jam.
Good things to know
Does “block up” have an informal or formal tone?
Block up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, depending on the specific context.
