What are the definitions of “lap up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Appreciate something.
He LAPPED UP their praise.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “lap up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb lap up is to enjoy or appreciate something, especially praise or attention. It is often used to describe how someone reacts to positive feedback or compliments.
What are the different verb forms of “lap up”?
| Root Verb | lap up |
| Third Person Singular Present | laps up |
| Present Participle | lapping up |
| Simple Past | lapped up |
| Past Participle | lapped up |
Example
The dog laps up the water from the bowl.
Example
She laps up the compliments from her friends.
Example
He is lapping up the attention from the crowd.
Example
They lapped up the praise after their performance.
Example
The positive feedback was lapped up by the team.
What kind of phrasal verb is “lap 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
“lap 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 lapped up the compliments.
Example
He lapped up the attention from the audience.
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
“lap 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 lapped up the compliments.
Example
He lapped up the attention from the audience.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “lap up”?
Lap up information
To eagerly absorb or learn new information.
Example
The students lapped up the knowledge from their teacher.
Good things to know
Does “lap up” have an informal or formal tone?
Lap up is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations. In more formal settings, it is better to use synonyms such as 'appreciate,' 'enjoy,' or 'relish.'
