What are the definitions of “tape up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To seal or close something using tape.
Make sure you tape up the envelope securely.
- 2To wrap or secure with tape.
Wilkins played the whole of the game with his right leg taped up.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “tape up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb tape up is to seal or close something using tape. It can also mean to wrap or secure something with tape. This phrasal verb is often used when talking about packaging, securing items, or protecting something with tape.
What are the different verb forms of “tape up”?
| Root Verb | tape up |
| Third Person Singular Present | tapes up |
| Present Participle | taping up |
| Simple Past | taped up |
| Past Participle | taped up |
Example
I need to tape up this box before sending it.
Example
She tapes up her injured ankle before playing soccer.
Example
He is taping up the broken window to keep the cold air out.
Example
Yesterday, they taped up all the posters on the wall.
Example
The package was taped up and ready for shipping.
What kind of phrasal verb is “tape 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
“tape 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 taped up the envelope securely.
Example
He taped up his injured wrist before the game.
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
“tape 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 taped up the envelope securely.
Example
He taped up his injured wrist before the game.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “tape up”?
Good things to know
Does “tape up” have an informal or formal tone?
Tape up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, such as in written instructions or professional communication.
