What are the definitions of “bump up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Increase.
They BUMP UP the prices in the high season.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bump up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb bump up is to increase something, such as a price, amount, or level. It is often used when talking about raising prices or making something higher in value or importance.
What are the different verb forms of “bump up”?
| Root Verb | bump up |
| Third Person Singular Present | bumps up |
| Present Participle | bumping up |
| Simple Past | bumped up |
| Past Participle | bumped up |
Example
The store decided to bump up the prices during the holiday season.
Example
She bumps up the volume when her favorite song comes on.
Example
He is bumping up the temperature in the room because it's too cold.
Example
They bumped up the deadline for the project.
Example
The prices have been bumped up due to increased demand.
What kind of phrasal verb is “bump 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
“bump 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
The company bumped up their prices.
Example
She bumped the volume up on the radio.
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
“bump 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
The company bumped up their prices.
Example
She bumped the volume up on the radio.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “bump up”?
Good things to know
Does “bump up” have an informal or formal tone?
Bump up is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in everyday conversations. In more formal settings, it is better to use synonyms such as 'increase' or 'raise' instead.
