What are the definitions of “flag up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Raise an issue, or highlight its importance.
We should FLAG UP working conditions at the meeting.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “flag up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb flag up is to raise an issue or highlight its importance, usually in a discussion or meeting. It is often used when someone wants to draw attention to a problem or concern that needs to be addressed.
What are the different verb forms of “flag up”?
| Root Verb | flag up |
| Third Person Singular Present | flags up |
| Present Participle | flagging up |
| Simple Past | flagged up |
| Past Participle | flagged up |
Example
We need to flag up the safety concerns at the meeting.
Example
She flags up the budget issues during the conference call.
Example
He is flagging up the need for better communication within the team.
Example
Yesterday, they flagged up the deadline extension request.
Example
The potential risks were flagged up during the project review.
What kind of phrasal verb is “flag 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
“flag 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
She flagged up the need for more resources.
Example
He flagged up the issue with the software.
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
“flag 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
She flagged up the need for more resources.
Example
He flagged up the issue with the software.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “flag up”?
Flag up a warning
To give a warning or alert about a potential problem or danger.
Example
The system flagged up a warning when the temperature reached a critical level.
Good things to know
Does “flag up” have an informal or formal tone?
Flag up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is commonly used in professional contexts, such as meetings and discussions, to draw attention to important issues or concerns. However, it can also be used in casual conversations when highlighting a problem or concern.
