What are the definitions of “pop up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Appear, like windows and boxes opening on a computer screen..
The dialogue box POPPED UP up when I pressed Enter.
- 2Appear unexpectedly.
I'm going to have to work late tonight because something has POPPED UP.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “pop up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb pop up is to appear suddenly or unexpectedly. It can be used to describe something that appears on a computer screen, like a window or a message, or it can refer to a situation or event that occurs without warning.
What are the different verb forms of “pop up”?
| Root Verb | pop up |
| Third Person Singular Present | pops up |
| Present Participle | popping up |
| Simple Past | popped up |
| Past Participle | popped up |
Example
A new window popped up on my computer screen.
Example
She always pops up when you least expect her.
Example
New stores are popping up all over the city.
Example
A message popped up on my phone while I was in a meeting.
Example
The issue has popped up several times in the past.
What kind of phrasal verb is “pop 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
“pop 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
A notification popped up on my phone.
Example
He popped up out of nowhere.
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
“pop 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
A notification popped up on my phone.
Example
He popped up out of nowhere.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “pop up”?
Pop-up store
A temporary retail space that opens for a short period of time, often to sell seasonal or limited-edition products.
Example
There's a new pop-up store in the mall selling handmade crafts.
Pop-up ad
An online advertisement that appears in a separate window on a computer screen, often unwanted or intrusive.
Example
I installed an ad blocker to stop annoying pop-up ads.
Pop-up book
A book with three-dimensional paper structures that rise up from the pages when the book is opened.
Example
My kids love reading pop-up books with colorful illustrations.
Good things to know
Does “pop up” have an informal or formal tone?
Pop up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be found in written communication, such as emails or articles, depending on the specific context.
