What are the definitions of “snarl up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Entangle.
My line was all SNARLED UP after I caught that last fish.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “snarl up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb snarl up is to become entangled or twisted, often referring to objects like ropes, wires, or fishing lines. It can also be used to describe a situation that has become complicated or difficult to resolve.
What are the different verb forms of “snarl up”?
| Root Verb | snarl up |
| Third Person Singular Present | snarls up |
| Present Participle | snarling up |
| Simple Past | snarled up |
| Past Participle | snarled up |
Example
The wires behind the computer were all snarled up.
Example
She always snarls up her headphones when she puts them in her bag.
Example
The fishing line is snarling up as he reels it in.
Example
The kite string snarled up when it got caught in the tree.
Example
The yarn was snarled up after the cat played with it.
What kind of phrasal verb is “snarl 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
“snarl 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 rope snarled up when I tried to untie it.
Example
Her hair snarled up after she went swimming.
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
“snarl 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 rope snarled up when I tried to untie it.
Example
Her hair snarled up after she went swimming.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “snarl up”?
Good things to know
Does “snarl up” have an informal or formal tone?
Snarl up 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 writing or presentations, depending on the specific context.
