What are the definitions of “fish for”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Try to get some information or to get someone to say something.
He's always FISHING FOR compliments.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “fish for”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fish for is to try to get some information or to get someone to say something, often in a subtle or indirect way. It is often used when someone is seeking compliments, praise, or approval.
What are the different verb forms of “fish for”?
| Root Verb | fish for |
| Third Person Singular Present | fishes for |
| Present Participle | fishing for |
| Simple Past | fished for |
| Past Participle | fished for |
Example
She always fishes for compliments when she wears a new outfit.
Example
He fishes for information about the company's plans.
Example
They are fishing for clues about the upcoming test.
Example
Yesterday, she fished for praise after her presentation.
Example
He had fished for compliments, but nobody noticed his new haircut.
What kind of phrasal verb is “fish for”?
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
“fish for” 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 fished for compliments after her performance.
Example
He fished for information about the new project.
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
“fish for” 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 fished for compliments after her performance.
Example
He fished for information about the new project.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “fish for”?
To try to get information from someone, often in a subtle or indirect way.
Example
The reporter was fishing for information about the politician's private life.
Fish for an invitation
To try to get someone to invite you to an event or gathering, often by indirectly asking or hinting.
Example
He was fishing for an invitation to the exclusive party.
Good things to know
Does “fish for” have an informal or formal tone?
Fish for is a neutral to informal phrasal verb. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can be used in both casual and more formal settings, depending on the context. However, in very formal writing or speech, it might be more appropriate to use synonyms like 'seek' or 'probe for' instead.
