Quick Definition
Bring Up — To raise a child; to mention a topic in conversation.
Meanings of Bring Up
| Meaning | Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Raise a child | She was brought up by her grandparents. | Her grandparents raised her. |
| Mention a topic | He brought up the issue of unpaid overtime. | He raised the subject. |
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Meaning in Context |
|---|---|
| She was brought up by her grandparents. | Her grandparents raised her. |
| He brought up the issue of unpaid overtime. | He raised the subject. |
| "Don't worry -- I'll bring up it." | Using it in a short reassurance. |
| She decided to bring up the whole situation. | Applying the phrasal verb in context. |
Grammar Notes
Separability & Transitivity
Type: separable | Transitivity: transitive
Always transitive. Separable: bring the subject up or bring up the subject. With pronouns, the particle must follow: bring it up (NOT bring up it).
How to Use Bring Up
Neutral. Both meanings are used across formal and informal contexts, though in formal writing 'raise' is often preferred to 'bring up'.
| Register | Example / Notes |
|---|---|
| Informal / Spoken | She was brought up by her grandparents. |
| Neutral / Written | Consider context; single-word synonyms may suit formal writing. |
Similar Phrasal Verbs
Practise Bring Up
Practice English Phrasal Verbs
Use these exercises to master phrasal verbs in context:
Frequently Asked Questions about Bring Up
What does "Bring Up" mean?
"Bring Up" means: To raise a child; to mention a topic in conversation. It is a transitive phrasal verb rated CEFR B1.
Is "Bring Up" separable or inseparable?
"Bring Up" is separable. Always transitive. Separable: bring the subject up or bring up the subject. With pronouns, the particle must follow: bring it up (NOT bring up it).
How do I use "Bring Up" in a sentence?
She was brought up by her grandparents. -- in this example, 'Bring Up' means her grandparents raised her.
What is the register of "Bring Up"?
Neutral. Both meanings are used across formal and informal contexts, though in formal writing 'raise' is often preferred to 'bring up'.
What CEFR level is "Bring Up"?
"Bring Up" is typically taught at CEFR B1 — Intermediate level. It appears frequently in neutral contexts.
What is the difference between "Bring Up" and similar phrasal verbs?
"Bring Up" specifically means: To raise a child; to mention a topic in conversation. Compare with similar verbs in the 'Similar Phrasal Verbs' section below for nuanced differences.
Can "Bring Up" be used formally?
Neutral. Both meanings are used across formal and informal contexts, though in formal writing 'raise' is often preferred to 'bring up'. When writing formally, consider whether a single-word synonym might be more appropriate for the context.
Does "Bring Up" take an object?
"Bring Up" is transitive. Always transitive. Separable: bring the subject up or bring up the subject. With pronouns, the particle must follow: bring it up (NOT bring up it).
How can I practise "Bring Up"?
Use LexFizz's Find the Match and Flip Tiles exercises to practise 'Bring Up' in context. Seeing it in multiple sentences helps the meaning stick.
Is "Bring Up" used in British or American English?
"Bring Up" is used in both British and American English, though register and frequency may vary. Neutral. Both meanings are used across formal and informal contexts, though in formal writing 'raise' is often preferred to 'bring up'.