What are the definitions of “pin up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Fix something to a wall, or other vertical surface, with a pin.
I PINNED the notice UP on the board.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “pin up”?
The phrasal verb pin up means to fix or attach something, typically a paper or object, to a wall or other vertical surface using a pin or similar fastener.
What are the different verb forms of “pin up”?
| Root Verb | *pin up* |
| Third Person Singular Present | *pins up* |
| Present Participle | *pinning up* |
| Simple Past | *pinned up* |
| Past Participle | *pinned up* |
Example
She always pins up her favorite photos on the wall.
Example
He frequently pins up important reminders in his office.
Example
They're currently pinning up artwork for the exhibition.
Example
Yesterday, she pinned up a map to plan their road trip.
Example
The kids had been pinned up their drawings on the classroom wall.
What kind of phrasal verb is “pin 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
“pin 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
I pinned the notice up on the board.
Example
She pins up inspirational quotes to motivate herself.
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
“pin 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
I pinned the notice up on the board.
Example
She pins up inspirational quotes to motivate herself.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “pin up”?
Pin up announcements
To display notices, messages, or artwork on a wall using pins.
Example
They pin up the class schedule in the hallway for everyone to see.
Pin up inspiration
To use the act of pinning as a way to motivate or remind oneself.
Example
She likes to pin up positive affirmations to start her day on a good note.
Pin up decorations
To use pins for decorative purposes, such as hanging party decorations.
Example
They're busy pinning up balloons and streamers for the birthday party.
Good things to know
Does “pin up” have an informal or formal tone?
The phrasal verb pin up is fairly neutral and can be used in both casual and slightly more formal contexts when discussing attaching objects or papers to walls.
