What are the definitions of “sober up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Stop showing the effects of alcohol or drugs.
Keith SOBERED UP a bit when we left the pub and walked home.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “sober up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb sober up is to stop showing the effects of alcohol or drugs. It usually refers to the process of becoming clear-headed and regaining control of one's faculties after consuming alcohol or drugs.
What are the different verb forms of “sober up”?
| Root Verb | sober up |
| Third Person Singular Present | sobers up |
| Present Participle | sobering up |
| Simple Past | sobered up |
| Past Participle | sobered up |
Example
After drinking too much, it took him a few hours to sober up.
Example
She usually sobers up quickly after having a glass of water.
Example
He is sobering up by drinking coffee and eating some food.
Example
They sobered up after taking a long walk in the fresh air.
Example
She had sobered up by the time she got home.
What kind of phrasal verb is “sober 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
“sober 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
He sobered up after a few hours of sleep.
Example
She sobered up once she had some food.
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
“sober 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
He sobered up after a few hours of sleep.
Example
She sobered up once she had some food.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “sober up”?
Sober up someone
Help someone to become sober, usually by providing food, water, or rest.
Example
I tried to sober up my friend by giving her some water and a sandwich.
Good things to know
Does “sober up” have an informal or formal tone?
Sober up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as discussions about health, safety, or addiction.
