What does the phrasal verb “plump for” mean?

What are the definitions of “plump for”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Choose.

  I PLUMPED FOR the steak frites.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “plump for”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb plump for is to choose or decide on something, especially after considering different options. It is often used when making a decision about food, products, or services.

What are the different verb forms of “plump for”?

Root Verb	plump for
Third Person Singular Present	plumps for
Present Participle	plumping for
Simple Past	plumped for
Past Participle	plumped for

Example

She couldn't decide between the two dresses, so she plumped for the red one.

Example

He always plumps for the same dish at his favorite restaurant.

Example

They are plumping for the more expensive option because it has better features.

Example

Yesterday, she plumped for the chocolate cake instead of the fruit salad.

Example

After considering all the options, they plumped for the beach vacation.

What kind of phrasal verb is “plump for”?

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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.)

Transitive verb

“plump for” 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 plumped for the red dress.

Example

He plumped for the steak frites.

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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

“plump for” 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 plumped for the red dress.

Example

He plumped for the steak frites.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “plump for”?

Plump for something

To choose or decide on a particular option, often after considering different possibilities.

Example

After looking at the menu, she plumped for the pasta dish.

Plump for someone

To choose or support a particular person, especially in a competition or election.

Example

The voters plumped for the more experienced candidate.

Plump for a course of action

To decide on a particular way of doing something, often after considering different approaches.

Example

The company plumped for a more aggressive marketing strategy.

Good things to know

Does “plump for” have an informal or formal tone?

Plump for is a relatively informal phrasal verb, more commonly used in casual conversations or informal writing. In more formal contexts, it is better to use synonyms such as 'choose,' 'select,' or 'opt for.'

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “plump for”?

Synonyms

• choose
• select
• pick
• opt for
• decide on
• settle on

Antonyms

• reject
• refuse
• ignore
• disregard
• overlook
• decline