What are the definitions of “mount up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Increase over time.
My debts MOUNTED UP while I was at university.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “mount up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb mount up is to increase or accumulate over time. It is often used to describe a growing amount of something, such as debts, expenses, or work.
What are the different verb forms of “mount up”?
| Root Verb | mount up |
| Third Person Singular Present | mounts up |
| Present Participle | mounting up |
| Simple Past | mounted up |
| Past Participle | mounted up |
Example
The bills started to mount up after I lost my job.
Example
The work mounts up quickly if you don't stay organized.
Example
The laundry is mounting up because I haven't had time to do it.
Example
The stress mounted up as the deadline approached.
Example
The expenses had mounted up by the end of the month.
What kind of phrasal verb is “mount 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
“mount 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 pressure mounted up as the exam date got closer.
Example
The costs mounted up during the renovation 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
“mount 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 pressure mounted up as the exam date got closer.
Example
The costs mounted up during the renovation project.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “mount up”?
Good things to know
Does “mount up” have an informal or formal tone?
Mount up 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 presentations.
