What are the definitions of “wire up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Make electrical connections.
She WIRED her new stereo system UP as soon as she got home.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “wire up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb wire up is to make electrical connections, such as connecting wires or cables to a device or system. This can involve setting up electronic devices, connecting appliances, or installing electrical systems.
What are the different verb forms of “wire up”?
| Root Verb | wire up |
| Third Person Singular Present | wires up |
| Present Participle | wiring up |
| Simple Past | wired up |
| Past Participle | wired up |
Example
He needs to wire up the new speakers to the sound system.
Example
She wires up the new lights in the living room.
Example
He is wiring up the security cameras outside the house.
Example
Yesterday, they wired up the new computer network.
Example
The electrician has wired up the entire building.
What kind of phrasal verb is “wire 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
“wire 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 wired up the new sound system.
Example
She wired the stereo up as soon as she got home.
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
“wire 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 wired up the new sound system.
Example
She wired the stereo up as soon as she got home.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “wire up”?
Good things to know
Does “wire up” have an informal or formal tone?
Wire 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 technical or professional settings when discussing electrical connections or installations.
