What are the definitions of “bolster up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Give support, reinforce, strengthen.
We were all scared but she BOLSTERED UP our courage.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bolster up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb bolster up is to give support, reinforce, or strengthen something or someone. It is often used when talking about providing emotional or mental support to someone who is going through a difficult time.
What are the different verb forms of “bolster up”?
| Root Verb | bolster up |
| Third Person Singular Present | bolsters up |
| Present Participle | bolstering up |
| Simple Past | bolstered up |
| Past Participle | bolstered up |
Example
She always knows how to bolster up my confidence when I'm feeling down.
Example
He bolsters up his team's morale before every game.
Example
She is bolstering up her friend's spirits after a tough day at work.
Example
They bolstered up the wall with extra support to prevent it from collapsing.
Example
The coach's pep talk bolstered up the team's confidence before the big game.
What kind of phrasal verb is “bolster 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
“bolster 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 bolstered up our courage during the difficult times.
Example
He bolstered up the structure with additional support.
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
“bolster 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 bolstered up our courage during the difficult times.
Example
He bolstered up the structure with additional support.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “bolster up”?
To help someone feel more confident or self-assured.
Example
Her kind words bolstered up my confidence before the presentation.
Good things to know
Does “bolster up” have an informal or formal tone?
Bolster 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, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
