What is a compound verb and some examples?

1 Answer
Feb 6, 2016

A compound verb is a verb that uses multiple words to form a single verb.

Explanation:

There are four types of compound verb:

Prepositional
When a preposition (a word that indicates location or time - e.g. in, on, for) combines with a verb to add detail to it.
E.g. believe in, care for, rely upon

Phrasal
When a verb combines with a prepositional adverb (a word describing the location or direction of a verb)
E.g. tear off, run out, pull through.

Auxiliary
When the verb combines with a "helping verb". These are often used when talking in a different tense. Common auxiliary verbs include various forms of to have and to be.
E.g. was walking, will meet, are running

Compound single-word
Sometimes, a single verb is made from multiple words. Both words may be verbs or one may be a descriptor or noun. Sometimes, they are joined and sometimes they are hyphenated.
E.g. babysit, water-proof, stir-fry

Here is a compilation of examples:
Believe in
Ask for
Rely upon
Tear up
Take away
Take down
work on
Was swimming
Will be considering
Will meet
Are running
Color-code
Double-click
Rely on
Wear away
Water-proof

I hope this helps; let me know if I can do anything else:)