What does the phrasal verb “grow upon” mean?

What are the definitions of “grow upon”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Like something that you didn't like at first.

  The book started slowly and was a bit dull, but it has GROWN UPON me.

• 2. Have a greater influence or degree of acceptance.

  As we got nearer the date of the meeting, their idea GREW UPON me.

• 3. Become gradually more evident.

  A feeling of distrust of them GREW UPON me.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb grow upon is to start liking something that you didn't like at first. It means that something becomes more appealing or enjoyable over time. For example, a song might not be interesting at first, but after listening to it several times, it may grow upon you.

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

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

Example

The taste of the new coffee grew upon me after a few days.

Example

The beauty of the painting grows upon her each time she sees it.

Example

The charm of the small town is growing upon us as we spend more time here.

Example

The book grew upon me as I continued reading.

Example

The idea has grown upon me since we first discussed it.

What kind of phrasal verb is “grow upon”?

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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 upon” 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 book grew upon me as I continued reading.

Example

The taste of the new coffee grew upon me after a few days.

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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 upon” 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 book grew upon me as I continued reading.

Example

The taste of the new coffee grew upon me after a few days.

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

Grow upon someone

To become more liked or appreciated by someone over time.

Example

The new coworker's sense of humor grew upon me as I got to know him better.

Grow upon someone's mind

To become more influential or persuasive in someone's thoughts.

Example

The importance of saving for retirement grew upon my mind as I got older.

Grow upon someone's heart

To become more emotionally significant or meaningful to someone.

Example

The memories of our time together grew upon my heart as the years passed.

Good things to know

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

Grow upon 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 discussions. The level of formality depends on the specific context in which it is used.

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

Synonyms

• appeal
• become more appealing
• become more enjoyable
• become more likable
• gain favor
• increase in influence
• win over

Antonyms

• decrease in appeal
• lose favor
• become less enjoyable
• become less likable
• diminish in influence
• turn off