What does the phrasal verb “perk up” mean?

What are the definitions of “perk up”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Feel better or happier, make someone feel better or happier.

  She was ill in bed with flu, but she PERKED UP a bit when some friends dropped by.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “perk up”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb perk up is to feel better or happier, or to make someone feel better or happier. It is often used when someone is feeling down or unwell, and something happens to improve their mood or condition.

What are the different verb forms of “perk up”?

Root Verb	perk up
Third Person Singular Present	perks up
Present Participle	perking up
Simple Past	perked up
Past Participle	perked up

Example

When she heard the good news, she perked up immediately.

Example

He always perks up when he sees his favorite snack.

Example

The plants are perking up after being watered.

Example

She perked up when her friends came to visit her.

Example

After a good night's sleep, he perked up and felt much better.

What kind of phrasal verb is “perk up”?

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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

“perk 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 dog perked up when it heard its owner's voice.

Example

She perked up after receiving a compliment.

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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

“perk 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 dog perked up when it heard its owner's voice.

Example

She perked up after receiving a compliment.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “perk up”?

Perk up one's ears

To become more attentive or interested in something, often used when talking about animals.

Example

The cat perked up its ears when it heard a noise outside.

Perk up someone's spirits

To make someone feel happier or more energetic.

Example

A surprise visit from her family perked up her spirits.

Perk up a room

To make a room look more attractive or lively.

Example

Adding some colorful pillows can perk up a dull room.

Good things to know

Does “perk up” have an informal or formal tone?

Perk up is a neutral to informal phrasal verb. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and casual contexts. It may not be suitable for very formal settings, where alternatives like 'improve' or 'brighten' might be more appropriate.

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

Synonyms

• brighten
• revive
• refresh
• enliven
• invigorate
• cheer up
• liven up
• energize

Antonyms

• depress
• dampen
• dishearten
• discourage
• dull
• weaken
• worsen
• diminish