What are the definitions of “angle for”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Try to get something indirectly, by hinting or suggesting.
He's been ANGLING FOR an invitation, but I don't want him to come.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “angle for”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb angle for is to try to get something indirectly, usually by hinting or suggesting. It often implies that the person is being manipulative or sneaky in their attempts to obtain what they want.
What are the different verb forms of “angle for”?
| Root Verb | angle for |
| Third Person Singular Present | angles for |
| Present Participle | angling for |
| Simple Past | angled for |
| Past Participle | angled for |
Example
She always angles for compliments by talking about how bad she looks.
Example
He angles for a promotion by constantly praising his boss.
Example
They are angling for an invitation to the exclusive party.
Example
Yesterday, she angled for a better seat at the concert.
Example
He had angled for a better deal, but it didn't work.
What kind of phrasal verb is “angle for”?
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
“angle for” 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
She angled for a compliment by talking about her new haircut.
Example
He angled for an invitation to the party by mentioning how much he loves their events.
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
“angle for” 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
She angled for a compliment by talking about her new haircut.
Example
He angled for an invitation to the party by mentioning how much he loves their events.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “angle for”?
Good things to know
Does “angle for” have an informal or formal tone?
Angle for 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.
