What are the definitions of “curl up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To arrange your body or part of your body into a comfortable position, especially by bending it or by turning inwards.
A hedgehog so fat it was unable to curl up for protection has been put on a diet.
- 2To lie or sit with your arms and legs bent close to your body.
Anna lay curled up in bed, thinking about what happened.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “curl up”?
The phrasal verb curl up is used to describe arranging your body or a part of your body into a comfortable position, often by bending it or turning it inward.
What are the different verb forms of “curl up”?
| Root Verb | *curl up* |
| Third Person Singular Present | *curls up* |
| Present Participle | *curling up* |
| Simple Past | *curled up* |
| Past Participle | *curled up* |
Example
A hedgehog so fat it was unable to curl up for protection has been put on a diet.
Example
He often curls up with a book on rainy days.
Example
They're discussing the benefits of curling up on the couch with a blanket.
Example
Last night, she curled up on the sofa to watch a movie.
Example
The cat was comfortably curled up by the fireplace.
What kind of phrasal verb is “curl 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.)
Intransitive verb
“curl 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
He often curls up with a book on rainy days.
Example
Anna curled up on the couch to read a novel.
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
“curl 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 often curls up with a book on rainy days.
Example
Anna curled up on the couch to read a novel.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “curl up”?
Good things to know
Does “curl up” have an informal or formal tone?
The phrasal verb curl up is versatile and can be used in various contexts. It is appropriate for both casual and formal conversations, as well as written communication.
