“Perk” definition and meaning

Before we look at the phrasal verbs with “perk” [pɜːk], let’s understand its meaning. The word “perk” can be used as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, “perk” means an advantage or privilege that is provided in addition to a salary, for example, “A company car is one of the perks of the job”. As a verb, “perk” can mean “to become more lively” or “to cheer up”, for example, “She perked up after hearing the good news”. Let’s look at some more examples of using the word “perk”.

As a noun:

• “One of the major perks of this job is the flexible working hours.”

As a verb:

• “I usually perk up after my morning coffee.”

A phrasal verb is formed by combining a verb with a preposition or adverb, which together create a new meaning. For example, “perk up” means “to become more energetic or cheerful”. Another example could be “perk along”, which means “to continue doing something steadily and without stopping”.

Common phrasal verbs with “perk” in English

Let’s examine in detail the phrasal verbs with “perk” in English, their meanings, and examples of usage.

Perk up

• Meaning: To become more lively, cheerful, or attentive. Feel better or happier, make someone feel better or happier.
• Example: “After a cup of coffee, he began to perk up and participate in the discussion.”
• Example: “She perked up when she heard the good news.”

Perk someone up

• Meaning: To make someone more lively, cheerful or energetic
• Example: “A few kind words perked her up.”

Perk around

• Meaning: To move or wander aimlessly.
• Example: “During the break, the students perked around the campus, enjoying the fresh air.”

Perk out

• Meaning: To protrude or stick out in a lively or noticeable manner.
• Meaning: To treat oneself to something pleasant
• Example: “The colorful flowers perked out from among the green foliage, catching everyone’s attention.”
• Example: “They decided to perk themselves out with a nice dinner.”

Perk through

• Meaning: To search or browse through something with interest or curiosity.
• Example: “She perked through the pages of the old photo album, reminiscing about her childhood.”

Perk up to

• Meaning: To become aware of or take interest in something.
• Example: “She finally perked up to the idea of studying abroad after hearing about the cultural experiences.”

Perk over

• Meaning: To examine or scrutinize something with attention to detail.
• Meaning: When something becomes more interesting or appealing to us
• Example: “He perked over the contract, making sure there were no hidden clauses.”
• Example: “The job offer perked over after I learned more about it.”

Perk along

• Meaning: To progress or move smoothly and steadily.
• Example: “The project perked along despite a few initial setbacks.”

Perk ahead

• Meaning: To anticipate or look forward to something with excitement.
• Example: “As the vacation approached, the children perked ahead with plans for activities.”

Perk down

• Meaning: To lower or depress something, often mood or enthusiasm.
• Example: “The rainy weather seemed to perk down everyone’s spirits.”

Perk away

• Meaning: To work diligently or energetically on a task.
• Example: “She perked away at her studies, determined to ace the exam.”

What’s important to remember?

Phrasal verbs with “perk” have different meanings, so it’s important to understand the context in order to use them correctly. The most common phrasal verb is “perk up”, so pay special attention to that one. Using phrasal verbs makes your English sound more natural and interesting. Practice is the key factor for success when learning English.