What are the definitions of “rise above”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To overcome or ignore something negative or difficult.
Cara did her best to rise above the shocking news.
- 2To be better or more successful than others.
This book clearly rises above the thousands of its competitors.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “rise above”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb rise above is to overcome or ignore something negative or difficult. It means to not let a challenging situation or problem affect you and to continue moving forward.
What are the different verb forms of “rise above”?
| Root Verb | rise above |
| Third Person Singular Present | rises above |
| Present Participle | rising above |
| Simple Past | rose above |
| Past Participle | risen above |
Example
Despite the challenges, she managed to rise above and succeed.
Example
He rises above the negativity and focuses on his goals.
Example
They are rising above their circumstances and working hard to improve their lives.
Example
She rose above the criticism and continued to pursue her dreams.
Example
He has risen above his difficult past and become a successful entrepreneur.
What kind of phrasal verb is “rise above”?
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
“rise above” 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
She rose above the challenges she faced.
Example
He rises above the negativity surrounding him.
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
“rise above” 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 rose above the challenges she faced.
Example
He rises above the negativity surrounding him.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “rise above”?
Good things to know
Does “rise above” have an informal or formal tone?
Rise above 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 speeches, presentations, or written communication.
