What are the definitions of “shoot up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Increase quickly.
The share prices of internet companies have been SHOOTING UP lately.
- 2Take illicit drugs intravenously..
The heroin - user would SHOOT UP in shop doorways.
- 3Damage with gun - shots.
The gangsters SHOT UP the pub.
- 4Increase quickly, grow.
Johnny has SHOT UP since I last saw him.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “shoot up”?
The phrasal verb shoot up is primarily used to indicate a rapid increase in quantity, value, or level. However, it also has other meanings depending on the context in which it is used.
What are the different verb forms of “shoot up”?
| Root Verb | *shoot up* |
| Third Person Singular Present | *shoots up* |
| Present Participle | *shooting up* |
| Simple Past | *shot up* |
| Past Participle | *shot up* |
Example
The prices of these stocks have been shooting up significantly.
Example
The graph shoots up steeply in the last quarter.
Example
They're discussing the reasons behind the market shooting up.
Example
Last week, the temperature suddenly shot up.
Example
The building had been shot up during the altercation.
What kind of phrasal verb is “shoot 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
“shoot 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 share prices of internet companies have been shooting up lately.
Example
The graph shoots up steeply in the last quarter.
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
“shoot 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 share prices of internet companies have been shooting up lately.
Example
The graph shoots up steeply in the last quarter.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “shoot up”?
To refer to the act of using drugs by injecting them directly into the bloodstream.
Example
He found a secluded place to shoot up heroin.
Good things to know
Does “shoot up” have an informal or formal tone?
The phrasal verb shoot up is informal and is used in various contexts. Its usage should be chosen based on the specific meaning and the nature of the conversation.
