What does the phrasal verb “cozy up” mean?

What are the definitions of “cozy up”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Make yourself comfortable.

  It was cold and I COZIED UP by the fire.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb cozy up is to make oneself comfortable, usually in a warm and snug environment. It often involves getting close to something or someone for warmth or comfort.

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

Root Verb	cozy up
Third Person Singular Present	cozies up
Present Participle	cozying up
Simple Past	cozied up
Past Participle	cozied up

Example

I like to cozy up with a good book on a rainy day.

Example

She cozies up to her cat when she's feeling lonely.

Example

He is cozying up by the fireplace with a warm blanket.

Example

Last night, they cozied up together and watched a movie.

Example

We had cozied up on the couch before the storm started.

What kind of phrasal verb is “cozy 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.)

Intransitive verb

“cozy up” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

She cozied up in her favorite chair.

Example

He cozied up by the fireplace.

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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

“cozy 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 cozied up in her favorite chair.

Example

He cozied up by the fireplace.

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

Cozy up to someone

To get close to someone, often in an attempt to gain their favor or approval.

Example

He tried to cozy up to his boss to get a promotion.

Cozy up with a book

To relax and read a book, often while being comfortable and warm.

Example

On a cold winter day, there's nothing better than cozying up with a good book.

Cozy up together

To snuggle or cuddle with someone, often for warmth or comfort.

Example

They cozied up together under a blanket while watching the sunset.

Good things to know

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

Cozy up is an informal phrasal verb that is commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal settings or writing.

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

Synonyms

• snuggle
• cuddle
• nestle
• huddle
• settle in
• get comfortable

Antonyms

• distance
• separate
• unsettle
• discomfort
• move away