What are the definitions of “think up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Create or invent something, especially when lying.
I'd better THINK UP a good reason for handing the work in late.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “think up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb think up is to create or invent something, often when lying or trying to come up with an excuse. It can be used when someone needs to create a story, idea, or plan quickly.
What are the different verb forms of “think up”?
| Root Verb | think up |
| Third Person Singular Present | thinks up |
| Present Participle | thinking up |
| Simple Past | thought up |
| Past Participle | thought up |
Example
She needs to think up a good excuse for being late.
Example
He always thinks up creative solutions to problems.
Example
They are thinking up a new marketing strategy for the product.
Example
She thought up a clever way to avoid the traffic.
Example
The game was thought up by a group of friends.
What kind of phrasal verb is “think 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
“think 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
He thought up a great idea for the project.
Example
She thought up a convincing excuse for her absence.
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
“think 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 thought up a great idea for the project.
Example
She thought up a convincing excuse for her absence.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “think up”?
Good things to know
Does “think up” have an informal or formal tone?
Think 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 meetings or academic discussions.
