What does the phrasal verb “connect up” mean?

What are the definitions of “connect up”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. To establish a connection with.

  I’m just trying to connect up to the email server.

• 2. To join or link together.

  I’ve connected the modem up to the phone line.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “connect up”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb connect up is to establish a connection between two things or to join them together. This can refer to connecting electronic devices, such as a computer to a network, or linking physical objects, like connecting pipes or cables.

What are the different verb forms of “connect up”?

Root Verb	connect up
Third Person Singular Present	connects up
Present Participle	connecting up
Simple Past	connected up
Past Participle	connected up

Example

I need to connect up my new printer to the computer.

Example

She connects up her laptop to the projector for the presentation.

Example

He is connecting up the speakers to the sound system.

Example

Yesterday, they connected up the new security cameras.

Example

The cables have been connected up to the power supply.

What kind of phrasal verb is “connect up”?

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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

“connect 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

He connected up the computer to the network.

Example

She connected the modem up to the phone line.

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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

“connect 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

He connected up the computer to the network.

Example

She connected the modem up to the phone line.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “connect up”?

Connect up with someone

To meet or join someone, often for a specific purpose or event.

Example

We will connect up with our friends at the concert later.

Connect up to a network

To establish a connection to a computer network or the internet.

Example

My phone automatically connects up to the Wi-Fi when I get home.

Connect up cables or wires

To join cables or wires together, often for electrical or electronic purposes.

Example

The technician connected up the cables to set up the new television.

Good things to know

Does “connect up” have an informal or formal tone?

Connect 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 technical or professional discussions.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “connect up”?

Synonyms

• link
• join
• attach
• combine
• couple
• unite
• associate
• integrate

Antonyms

• disconnect
• detach
• separate
• disjoin
• disassociate
• disunite
• divide