What are the definitions of “clog up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Block, slow movement right down.
The traffic's so bad the roads get CLOGGED UP at rush hour.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “clog up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb clog up is to block or slow down the movement of something, such as traffic or a pipe. It often refers to a situation where something is so full or congested that it cannot function properly.
What are the different verb forms of “clog up”?
| Root Verb | clog up |
| Third Person Singular Present | clogs up |
| Present Participle | clogging up |
| Simple Past | clogged up |
| Past Participle | clogged up |
Example
Leaves often clog up the gutters in the fall.
Example
The sink clogs up whenever we wash too many dishes at once.
Example
The snow is clogging up the roads, making it difficult to drive.
Example
The drain clogged up after the heavy rain.
Example
The pipes were clogged up with debris, causing the water to back up.
What kind of phrasal verb is “clog 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
“clog 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
The leaves clogged up the gutter.
Example
Too much paper clogged up the printer.
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
“clog 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
The leaves clogged up the gutter.
Example
Too much paper clogged up the printer.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “clog up”?
Good things to know
Does “clog up” have an informal or formal tone?
Clog up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, such as in reports or presentations, depending on the specific context.
