What does the phrasal verb “grow to” mean?

What are the definitions of “grow to”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Eventually do something.

  We GREW TO like the neighbourhood.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “grow to”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb grow to is to gradually develop a feeling, opinion, or habit over time. It often refers to a change in one's attitude or feelings towards something or someone.

What are the different verb forms of “grow to”?

Root Verb	grow to
Third Person Singular Present	grows to
Present Participle	growing to
Simple Past	grew to
Past Participle	grown to

Example

I grew to appreciate her sense of humor.

Example

He grows to love the new city he moved to.

Example

She is growing to enjoy her new job.

Example

We grew to like the neighborhood.

Example

They had grown to become best friends.

What kind of phrasal verb is “grow to”?

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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

“grow to” 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

I grew to love the city.

Example

She grew to appreciate her new job.

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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

“grow to” 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

I grew to love the city.

Example

She grew to appreciate her new job.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “grow to”?

Grow to know

Gradually become familiar with someone or something over time.

Example

As they spent more time together, they grew to know each other better.

Grow to understand

Gradually develop a deeper understanding of a concept, situation, or person.

Example

Through her studies, she grew to understand the complexities of the subject.

Grow to love

Gradually develop a strong affection or attachment to someone or something.

Example

At first, he didn't like the taste, but he eventually grew to love it.

Good things to know

Does “grow to” have an informal or formal tone?

Grow to 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 writing or speech.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “grow to”?

Synonyms

• develop
• evolve
• progress
• mature
• advance
• cultivate
• nurture

Antonyms

• diminish
• deteriorate
• worsen
• regress
• shrink
• weaken
• decline