What are the definitions of “roll up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To appear in large numbers for an event.
Thousands ROLLED UP to see the stars at the film premiere.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “roll up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb roll up is to arrive or appear somewhere, usually in large numbers or for an event. For example, it can mean people gathering for a concert, a party, or a special occasion.
What are the different verb forms of “roll up”?
| Root Verb | roll up |
| Third Person Singular Present | rolls up |
| Present Participle | rolling up |
| Simple Past | rolled up |
| Past Participle | rolled up |
Example
People started to roll up at the party around 8 pm.
Example
She always rolls up to events fashionably late.
Example
The crowd is rolling up to the concert venue as the doors open.
Example
They rolled up to the wedding just in time for the ceremony.
Example
The fans had rolled up to the stadium hours before the game started.
What kind of phrasal verb is “roll 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.)
Intransitive verb
“roll up” 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
The guests rolled up to the party one by one.
Example
Fans rolled up to the concert in large numbers.
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
“roll 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
The guests rolled up to the party one by one.
Example
Fans rolled up to the concert in large numbers.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “roll up”?
Good things to know
Does “roll up” have an informal or formal tone?
Roll up is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations. In more formal settings, alternative phrases such as 'arrive,' 'appear,' or 'gather' may be more appropriate.
