What are the definitions of “chow down on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Eat something.
We're going to CHOW DOWN ON that barbecued pork.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “chow down on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb chow down on is to eat something, usually with enthusiasm or a strong appetite. It is often used to describe enjoying a meal or a particular food item.
What are the different verb forms of “chow down on”?
| Root Verb | chow down on |
| Third Person Singular Present | chows down on |
| Present Participle | chowing down on |
| Simple Past | chowed down on |
| Past Participle | chowed down on |
Example
I can't wait to chow down on some pizza tonight.
Example
She chows down on her favorite burger every weekend.
Example
He is chowing down on a delicious sandwich for lunch.
Example
Yesterday, they chowed down on a big breakfast before their hike.
Example
We have chowed down on some amazing meals during our vacation.
What kind of phrasal verb is “chow down on”?
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
“chow down on” 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 chowed down on a huge plate of pasta.
Example
She chowed down on the delicious dessert.
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
“chow down on” 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 chowed down on a huge plate of pasta.
Example
She chowed down on the delicious dessert.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “chow down on”?
Slang term for food, often used in a casual or informal context.
Example
There's plenty of chow at the party, so help yourself.
Good things to know
Does “chow down on” have an informal or formal tone?
Chow down on is an informal phrasal verb used in casual conversations. It is not typically used in formal settings or written communication. In more formal situations, it is better to use alternatives such as 'eat,' 'consume,' or 'enjoy.'
