What are the definitions of “fasten up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Close, attach.
FASTEN UP your seatbelts.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “fasten up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fasten up is to close or attach something securely. For example, it can mean securing a seatbelt, buttoning a shirt, or closing a bag.
What are the different verb forms of “fasten up”?
| Root Verb | fasten up |
| Third Person Singular Present | fastens up |
| Present Participle | fastening up |
| Simple Past | fastened up |
| Past Participle | fastened up |
Example
Please fasten up your coat before going outside.
Example
She fastens up her shoes before going for a run.
Example
He is fastening up the straps on his backpack.
Example
Yesterday, they fastened up the tent before the storm hit.
Example
The gate was fastened up to keep the animals inside.
What kind of phrasal verb is “fasten 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
“fasten 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
She fastened up her seatbelt before driving.
Example
He fastened the buttons up on his shirt.
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
“fasten 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 fastened up her seatbelt before driving.
Example
He fastened the buttons up on his shirt.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “fasten up”?
Fasten up one's shoelaces
To tie or secure the laces on one's shoes.
Example
Before starting the race, make sure to fasten up your shoelaces.
Good things to know
Does “fasten up” have an informal or formal tone?
Fasten up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, depending on the specific context.
