What are the definitions of “warm to”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

1To become more accepting or enthusiastic about something.
It might take them a while to warm to the idea.
2To develop a liking or affection for someone or something.
She’s the kind of person you warm to immediately.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “warm to”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb warm to is to become more accepting or enthusiastic about something or someone. It means that you start to like or feel more positive about a person, idea, or situation.

What are the different verb forms of “warm to”?

Root Verb	warm to
Third Person Singular Present	warms to
Present Participle	warming to
Simple Past	warmed to
Past Participle	warmed to

Example

At first, I didn't like the new song, but I eventually warmed to it.

Example

He warms to new people quickly.

Example

She is warming to the idea of moving to a new city.

Example

They warmed to each other after spending more time together.

Example

After trying it a few times, she warmed to the taste of sushi.

What kind of phrasal verb is “warm to”?

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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

“warm to” 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

I warmed to the idea of adopting a pet.

Example

She warmed to her new coworker after getting to know him better.

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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

“warm to” 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

I warmed to the idea of adopting a pet.

Example

She warmed to her new coworker after getting to know him better.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “warm to”?

Warm to the task

To become more enthusiastic or engaged in a task or activity.

Example

After a slow start, the team warmed to the task and began working more efficiently.

Warm to someone's advances

To become more receptive or open to someone's romantic interest.

Example

Initially hesitant, she eventually warmed to his advances and agreed to go on a date.

Warm to a subject

To become more interested or engaged in a topic or discussion.

Example

As the conversation continued, he warmed to the subject and shared his thoughts more openly.

Good things to know

Does “warm to” have an informal or formal tone?

Warm to is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “warm to”?

Synonyms

accept
appreciate
grow fond of
become receptive
develop a liking
become more enthusiastic
embrace

Antonyms

dislike
reject
oppose
disapprove
resist
cool to
turn against