What are the definitions of “give yourself up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Surrender to the police or authorities.
The gang GAVE THEMSELVES UP last night.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “give yourself up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb give yourself up is to surrender or submit oneself, especially to the authorities or police. It is often used when someone stops trying to avoid being caught, or when they accept that they cannot escape or continue resisting.
What are the different verb forms of “give yourself up”?
| Root Verb | give yourself up |
| Third Person Singular Present | gives himself/herself up |
| Present Participle | giving yourself up |
| Simple Past | gave yourself up |
| Past Participle | given yourself up |
Example
If you give yourself up, the police will treat you fairly.
Example
The thief finally gives himself up to the police.
Example
He is giving himself up to the authorities after a long chase.
Example
She gave herself up to the police after realizing she couldn't escape.
Example
He had given himself up to the police, hoping for a lighter sentence.
What kind of phrasal verb is “give yourself 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
“give yourself 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
The fugitive gave himself up after a week on the run.
Example
After a long standoff, the suspect finally gave herself up.
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
“give yourself 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 fugitive gave himself up after a week on the run.
Example
After a long standoff, the suspect finally gave herself up.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “give yourself up”?
Good things to know
Does “give yourself up” have an informal or formal tone?
Give yourself up is a neutral phrasal verb. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. In a legal or law enforcement context, it is often used to refer to a person surrendering to the authorities. In a more informal or conversational context, it can be used to describe surrendering oneself emotionally or mentally to a situation or person.
