What are the definitions of “split up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Divide into groups.
The teacher SPLIT the class UP into groups of four.
- 2Finish a relationship.
They are always SPLITTING UP and then getting back together again.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “split up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb split up is to divide something into smaller parts or groups. It can also mean ending a relationship between two people.
What are the different verb forms of “split up”?
| Root Verb | split up |
| Third Person Singular Present | splits up |
| Present Participle | splitting up |
| Simple Past | split up |
| Past Participle | split up |
Example
The teacher split up the class into groups of four.
Example
She splits up the tasks among her team members.
Example
They are splitting up the money they won in the lottery.
Example
The band split up after their last concert.
Example
The company was split up into smaller divisions.
What kind of phrasal verb is “split 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
“split 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 teacher split up the class into groups.
Example
They split up their partnership after a disagreement.
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
“split 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 teacher split up the class into groups.
Example
They split up their partnership after a disagreement.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “split up”?
Good things to know
Does “split up” have an informal or formal tone?
Split 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 business or legal discussions.
