What are the definitions of “send up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Imitate / impersonate for comic effect.
The mischievous schoolboy was standing at the front of the class, SENDING the teacher UP, when the teacher opened the door behind him.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “send up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb send up is to imitate or impersonate someone or something in a humorous or exaggerated way, usually for comic effect. It is often used to describe making fun of someone or something by copying their actions, speech, or appearance.
What are the different verb forms of “send up”?
| Root Verb | send up |
| Third Person Singular Present | sends up |
| Present Participle | sending up |
| Simple Past | sent up |
| Past Participle | sent up |
Example
The comedian sent up the politician during his performance.
Example
She sends up her friends in a playful manner.
Example
He is sending up the celebrity's unique fashion style.
Example
The actors sent up famous movie scenes in their comedy show.
Example
The impersonator had sent up many famous people in his career.
What kind of phrasal verb is “send 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
“send 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
The comedian sent up the politician during his performance.
Example
She sent her friend up with a funny impersonation.
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
“send 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 comedian sent up the politician during his performance.
Example
She sent her friend up with a funny impersonation.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “send up”?
Good things to know
Does “send up” have an informal or formal tone?
Send up is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations and settings. It may not be appropriate for formal writing or situations where a more serious tone is required.
