What are the definitions of “cater to”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To provide what is needed, often seen negatively.
The film CATERS TO the audience's worst instincts.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “cater to”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb cater to is to provide what is needed or desired, often in a way that is seen negatively. It can be used to describe how a service, product, or person is designed to meet the specific needs or preferences of a particular group or individual.
What are the different verb forms of “cater to”?
| Root Verb | cater to |
| Third Person Singular Present | caters to |
| Present Participle | catering to |
| Simple Past | catered to |
| Past Participle | catered to |
Example
The restaurant caters to a variety of dietary preferences.
Example
She caters to her children's every whim.
Example
The hotel is catering to the needs of its guests.
Example
The event catered to the interests of the attendees.
Example
Their demands have been catered to by the company.
What kind of phrasal verb is “cater to”?
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
“cater to” 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
The store caters to the needs of its customers.
Example
The politician catered to the desires of his supporters.
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
“cater to” 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
The store caters to the needs of its customers.
Example
The politician catered to the desires of his supporters.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “cater to”?
Good things to know
Does “cater to” have an informal or formal tone?
Cater to 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.
