What are the definitions of “strike up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Start ( conversation, relationship ).
He STRUCK UP a conversation with me in the bar.
- 2Start performing music.
The band STRUCK UP and everyone turned to listen.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “strike up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb strike up is to start a conversation or relationship with someone. It is often used when talking about meeting new people or initiating a conversation in a social setting.
What are the different verb forms of “strike up”?
| Root Verb | strike up |
| Third Person Singular Present | strikes up |
| Present Participle | striking up |
| Simple Past | struck up |
| Past Participle | struck up |
Example
She struck up a conversation with the stranger at the party.
Example
He strikes up a conversation with his neighbor every morning.
Example
They are striking up a friendship with their new classmates.
Example
Yesterday, she struck up a conversation with a famous author.
Example
He had struck up a relationship with his coworker.
What kind of phrasal verb is “strike 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
“strike 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
She struck up a conversation with the stranger.
Example
The band struck up a lively tune.
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
“strike 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
She struck up a conversation with the stranger.
Example
The band struck up a lively tune.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “strike up”?
Strike up a conversation
Start talking to someone, usually a stranger or someone you don't know well.
Example
At the networking event, she struck up a conversation with a potential client.
Strike up a relationship
Begin a friendship or romantic relationship with someone.
Example
They struck up a relationship after meeting at a mutual friend's party.
Strike up a tune
Start playing a piece of music, usually with a band or orchestra.
Example
The orchestra struck up a beautiful melody as the guests entered the ballroom.
Good things to know
Does “strike up” have an informal or formal tone?
Strike up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal situations, such as business meetings or professional events.
