What are the definitions of “drum up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Increase support or interest.
They are trying to DRUM UP support for the referendum.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “drum up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb drum up is to increase support or interest in something, such as a cause, event, or product. It often involves promoting or advertising to get people's attention and encourage them to participate or contribute.
What are the different verb forms of “drum up”?
| Root Verb | drum up |
| Third Person Singular Present | drums up |
| Present Participle | drumming up |
| Simple Past | drummed up |
| Past Participle | drummed up |
Example
The charity event organizers are trying to drum up more donations.
Example
She drums up interest in her new book by giving interviews and attending book signings.
Example
He is drumming up support for his political campaign by going door-to-door.
Example
They drummed up a large crowd for the concert by offering free tickets.
Example
The marketing team drummed up a lot of excitement for the product launch.
What kind of phrasal verb is “drum 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
“drum 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 politician drummed up support for his campaign.
Example
The company drummed up interest in their new product.
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
“drum 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 politician drummed up support for his campaign.
Example
The company drummed up interest in their new product.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “drum up”?
Drum up business
Attract customers or clients to a business or service.
Example
The new advertising campaign aims to drum up business for the struggling store.
Good things to know
Does “drum up” have an informal or formal tone?
Drum up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in professional settings, such as business, marketing, and politics.
