What does the phrasal verb “pump up” mean?

What are the definitions of “pump up”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. To inflate or fill with air.

  My bicycle tyres need pumping up.

• 2. To make someone feel excited or enthusiastic.

  The coach’s job is to get everyone pumped up for the game.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “pump up”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb pump up is to inflate something with air, such as a tire or a balloon. It can also mean to make someone feel excited or enthusiastic about something.

What are the different verb forms of “pump up”?

Root Verb	pump up
Third Person Singular Present	pumps up
Present Participle	pumping up
Simple Past	pumped up
Past Participle	pumped up

Example

I need to pump up the air mattress before our guests arrive.

Example

He pumps up his bicycle tires every week.

Example

She is pumping up the balloons for the party.

Example

They pumped up the basketball before the game started.

Example

The tires were pumped up and ready for the race.

What kind of phrasal verb is “pump 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

“pump 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 pumped up the air mattress.

Example

He pumped the tires up before the trip.

📝

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

“pump 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 pumped up the air mattress.

Example

He pumped the tires up before the trip.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “pump up”?

Pump up the volume

Increase the volume or loudness of music or sound.

Example

The DJ pumped up the volume, and everyone started dancing.

Pump up the jam

A phrase used to encourage someone to increase the energy or excitement in a situation, often related to music or dancing.

Example

Come on, let's pump up the jam and get this party started!

Pump oneself up

To mentally prepare oneself or increase one's confidence before an event or activity.

Example

Before the big presentation, he pumped himself up by listening to his favorite motivational songs.

Good things to know

Does “pump up” have an informal or formal tone?

Pump up is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations. It may not be suitable for formal writing or professional settings. In more formal contexts, alternatives such as 'inflate' or 'motivate' can be used.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “pump up”?

Synonyms

• inflate
• motivate
• excite
• enthuse
• inspire
• encourage
• fill with air
• energize

Antonyms for {keyword}

• deflate
• discourage
• dampen
• dishearten
• release air
• calm down
• demotivate