What are the definitions of “rack up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Acquire a lot of something.
He's RACKED UP a number of convictions for speeding.
- 2Damage.
They RACKED UP the car in an accident.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “rack up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb rack up is to accumulate or acquire a large amount of something, often in a short period of time. This can refer to gaining points in a game, earning money, or achieving success.
What are the different verb forms of “rack up”?
| Root Verb | rack up |
| Third Person Singular Present | racks up |
| Present Participle | racking up |
| Simple Past | racked up |
| Past Participle | racked up |
Example
She managed to rack up a lot of points in the game.
Example
He racks up a lot of frequent flyer miles with his job.
Example
They are racking up a lot of debt with their credit cards.
Example
Last year, she racked up several awards for her performance.
Example
He had racked up a lot of experience in his field.
What kind of phrasal verb is “rack 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
“rack 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 racked up a lot of points in the game.
Example
He racked up a lot of frequent flyer miles with his job.
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
“rack 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 racked up a lot of points in the game.
Example
He racked up a lot of frequent flyer miles with his job.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “rack up”?
Rack up a bill
Accumulate a large amount of charges or expenses, often unexpectedly.
Example
We racked up a huge bill during our vacation.
Rack up a score
Achieve a high score in a game or competition.
Example
He racked up an impressive score in the basketball game.
Rack up experience
Gain a significant amount of experience or knowledge in a particular field or activity.
Example
She racked up a lot of experience working in different industries.
Good things to know
Does “rack up” have an informal or formal tone?
Rack up is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations. In more formal settings, it is better to use synonyms such as 'accumulate' or 'amass'.
