What does the phrasal verb “belong with” mean?

What are the definitions of “belong with”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Be in the correct or appropriate location with other items.

  Does this disc BELONG WITH those on the shelf?

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “belong with”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb belong with is to be in the correct or appropriate location with other items. It means that something should be placed or grouped together with similar or related items.

What are the different verb forms of “belong with”?

Root Verb	belong with
Third Person Singular Present	belongs with
Present Participle	belonging with
Simple Past	belonged with
Past Participle	belonged with

Example

Does this book belong with the others on the shelf?

Example

This painting belongs with the collection in the living room.

Example

These documents are belonging with the rest of the files in the cabinet.

Example

The missing puzzle piece belonged with the rest of the pieces in the box.

Example

The misplaced item belonged with the other items in the storage room.

What kind of phrasal verb is “belong with”?

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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

“belong with” 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

These shoes belong with the others in the closet.

Example

The extra key belongs with the rest of the keys on the key rack.

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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

“belong with” 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

These shoes belong with the others in the closet.

Example

The extra key belongs with the rest of the keys on the key rack.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “belong with”?

Belong with someone

To be a good match or fit well with someone, often in a romantic context.

Example

They are so happy together; they truly belong with each other.

Belong with something

To be a part of a group or category, often in a figurative sense.

Example

Her artwork belongs with the great masterpieces of the art world.

Good things to know

Does “belong with” have an informal or formal tone?

Belong with 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, depending on the specific context.

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

Synonyms

• fit with
• match with
• go with
• be part of
• be included with
• be grouped with

Antonyms

• mismatch
• contrast
• differ
• separate
• exclude
• disassociate