What are the definitions of “sit for”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Pose for an artist or photographer.
The Queen SAT FOR another official portrait.
- 2Look after children while their parents are out.
She SITS FOR her neighbors when they go out.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “sit for”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb sit for is to pose for an artist or photographer. It means to stay in a specific position so that someone can create a painting, drawing, or photograph of you.
What are the different verb forms of “sit for”?
| Root Verb | sit for |
| Third Person Singular Present | sits for |
| Present Participle | sitting for |
| Simple Past | sat for |
| Past Participle | sat for |
Example
She agreed to sit for a portrait by the famous artist.
Example
He sits for a photograph every year on his birthday.
Example
She is sitting for a family portrait with her children.
Example
They sat for a group photo at the reunion.
Example
She had sat for several portraits throughout her life.
What kind of phrasal verb is “sit for”?
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
“sit for” 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 model sat for the photographer.
Example
The children sat for their school pictures.
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
“sit for” 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 model sat for the photographer.
Example
The children sat for their school pictures.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “sit for”?
Good things to know
Does “sit for” have an informal or formal tone?
Sit for 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 discussing art or professional photography.
