What are the definitions of “ache for”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Want something or someone a lot.
My partner's been away for a fortnight- I am ACHING FOR her.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “ache for”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb ache for is to want something or someone very much, often with a strong emotional desire. It can be used to express longing for a person, place, or thing.
What are the different verb forms of “ache for”?
| Root Verb | ache for |
| Third Person Singular Present | aches for |
| Present Participle | aching for |
| Simple Past | ached for |
| Past Participle | ached for |
Example
I ache for a vacation after working so hard.
Example
She aches for her family when she is away from home.
Example
He is aching for a chance to prove himself.
Example
They ached for each other when they were apart.
Example
I have ached for this opportunity my whole life.
What kind of phrasal verb is “ache 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
“ache 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 ached for her husband when he was away on a business trip.
Example
I ached for a good night's sleep after a long day.
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
“ache 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 ached for her husband when he was away on a business trip.
Example
I ached for a good night's sleep after a long day.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “ache for”?
Ache for someone
To miss someone deeply and desire to be with them.
Example
When they were apart, he ached for her every day.
Ache for something
To have a strong desire or craving for a particular thing or experience.
Example
After a long day of hiking, she ached for a hot shower and a comfortable bed.
Ache for success
To have a strong desire to achieve success or reach a specific goal.
Example
He ached for success and worked tirelessly to achieve his dreams.
Good things to know
Does “ache for” have an informal or formal tone?
Ache 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 writing or speech, depending on the specific context.
