What are the definitions of “pore over”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Read, look at or study carefully.
She PORED OVER the report looking for mistakes.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “pore over”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb pore over is to read, look at, or study something carefully, usually with great attention to detail. It often implies spending a significant amount of time examining or analyzing the material.
What are the different verb forms of “pore over”?
| Root Verb | pore over |
| Third Person Singular Present | pores over |
| Present Participle | poring over |
| Simple Past | pored over |
| Past Participle | pored over |
Example
He pores over the newspaper every morning.
Example
She pores over the documents to find any errors.
Example
They are poring over the old manuscripts in the library.
Example
Yesterday, he pored over the contract before signing it.
Example
The detective pored over the evidence to find any clues.
What kind of phrasal verb is “pore over”?
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
“pore over” 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 pored over the report.
Example
He pored over the map to find the best route.
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
“pore over” 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 pored over the report.
Example
He pored over the map to find the best route.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “pore over”?
Good things to know
Does “pore over” have an informal or formal tone?
Pore over is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as academic or professional discussions.
