What are the definitions of “stack up against”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Be as good as something.
The new model doesn't STACK UP AGAINST the old one.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “stack up against”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb stack up against is to compare something with another thing, usually to see if it is as good or effective as the other. It is often used to evaluate the quality or performance of something in comparison to another.
What are the different verb forms of “stack up against”?
| Root Verb | stack up against |
| Third Person Singular Present | stacks up against |
| Present Participle | stacking up against |
| Simple Past | stacked up against |
| Past Participle | stacked up against |
Example
How does this product stack up against the competition?
Example
She stacks up against the other candidates quite well.
Example
The new software is stacking up against the older version in terms of speed.
Example
The movie stacked up against the book, and many people preferred the book.
Example
The performance of the new car has stacked up against the older model.
What kind of phrasal verb is “stack up against”?
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
“stack up against” 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 new phone doesn't stack up against the previous model.
Example
His skills stack up against the other players on the team.
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
“stack up against” 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 new phone doesn't stack up against the previous model.
Example
His skills stack up against the other players on the team.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “stack up against”?
To compare oneself or something with others in a competitive situation.
Example
The new product stacks up against the competition in terms of quality and price.
Good things to know
Does “stack up against” have an informal or formal tone?
Stack up against 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 meetings or academic discussions.
