What are the definitions of “power up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Turn a computer or electronic device on so that it is ready to use.
I POWERED UP my laptop and started work.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “power up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb power up is to turn on a computer or electronic device, making it ready for use. It is often used when starting a device or system.
What are the different verb forms of “power up”?
| Root Verb | power up |
| Third Person Singular Present | powers up |
| Present Participle | powering up |
| Simple Past | powered up |
| Past Participle | powered up |
Example
Before the presentation, I powered up the projector.
Example
She powers up her computer every morning.
Example
He is powering up the sound system for the concert.
Example
Yesterday, they powered up the new server for the first time.
Example
The device had been powered up and was ready for use.
What kind of phrasal verb is “power 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
“power 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
She powered up her computer.
Example
He powered the system up before the meeting.
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
“power 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
She powered up her computer.
Example
He powered the system up before the meeting.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “power up”?
Good things to know
Does “power up” have an informal or formal tone?
Power up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in technical and professional settings.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “power up”?
Synonyms
- start
- activate
- initialize
- turn on
- boot up
- switch on
Antonyms
- turn off
- shut down
- deactivate
- switch off
- power down
