What are the definitions of “pair up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Form a pair.
We PAIRED UP for the last activity.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “pair up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb pair up is to form a pair or join together with someone or something else. It is often used in the context of group activities, games, or teamwork.
What are the different verb forms of “pair up”?
| Root Verb | pair up |
| Third Person Singular Present | pairs up |
| Present Participle | pairing up |
| Simple Past | paired up |
| Past Participle | paired up |
Example
We pair up for the last activity.
Example
She pairs up with her best friend for the project.
Example
They are pairing up for the dance competition.
Example
Yesterday, we paired up for the team-building exercise.
Example
The students were paired up for the assignment.
What kind of phrasal verb is “pair 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
“pair 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
We paired up for the last activity.
Example
The students paired up for the assignment.
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
“pair 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
We paired up for the last activity.
Example
The students paired up for the assignment.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “pair up”?
Pair up items
To match or group items together that belong or work well together.
Example
She paired up the socks after doing laundry.
Good things to know
Does “pair up” have an informal or formal tone?
Pair up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as in educational or professional environments.
