lap up

USAGE SUMMARY

"lap up" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe an eagerness to consume or absorb something, usually in a greedy or enthusiastic way. For example: "The crowd lapped up every word the celebrity said."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Food

Literature

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We lap up stories about elephants.

Independent

Sadly, people lap up this cheap sensationalism.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Caribbean and Latin American audiences also lap up Nollywood films.

The Economist

And ordinary folk busily lap up what the elite disdains.

The Economist

It will lap up to the city's main street.

The New York Times

On TV, we lap up Making a Murderer.

The Guardian - Opinion

The economic waves lap up on many shores.

The New York Times - Sports

They lap up oysters in the din, clink glasses, order some more.

The New York Times - Food

Shan's specialty is violence, which young readers lap up in their droves.

Independent

Europeans seem as happy to lap up that sort of Americana as ever.

The Economist

Of course, we lap up baked beans (which are actually stewed).

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lap up" to convey the idea of consuming something eagerly and enthusiastically, whether it's information, praise, or food. It adds a vivid image of enjoyment.

Common error

Avoid using "lap up" in situations where a literal, physical lapping action is not implied or possible, unless you intend a humorous or figurative effect. For example, don't say "The machine lapped up the data" if it's a computer processing information.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "lap up" functions as a transitive verb, meaning it requires a direct object. It describes the action of eagerly receiving or consuming something, whether literally (like a cat drinking milk) or figuratively (like enjoying praise). Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "lap up" signifies consuming something with enthusiasm, whether it's a liquid, information, or praise. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used. Its register is typically neutral, making it suitable for various contexts, from news reports to casual conversations. While generally positive, it can sometimes imply gullibility. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media, with less frequent usage in more formal or scientific settings. Remember to use it when you want to emphasize eager enjoyment or consumption, but be mindful of potential negative connotations in certain situations. Its versatility and vividness make it a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

revel in

Focuses on taking great pleasure in something, much like "lapping up" applause or admiration.

relish

Emphasizes enjoying something intensely, similar to "lap up" in the sense of enjoying attention or praise.

drink in

Implies absorbing something with great interest and enjoyment, comparable to "lapping up" knowledge or experiences.

take delight in

Highlights the enjoyment derived from something, similar to "lapping up" attention or success.

devour

Highlights the act of consuming something quickly and eagerly, akin to "lap up" when referring to information or entertainment.

eat up

Suggests accepting something without question or with great enthusiasm, similar to "lap up" when referring to accepting ideas or stories.

soak up

Indicates absorbing something completely, akin to "lapping up" information or atmosphere.

savor

Suggests enjoying something slowly and thoroughly, similar to "lap up" when referring to experiences.

welcome with open arms

Emphasizes a warm and enthusiastic reception, similar to "lap up" in the context of receiving praise or opportunities.

embrace

Focuses on accepting something willingly and enthusiastically, like "lapping up" a new opportunity.

FAQs

How can I use "lap up" in a sentence?

You can use "lap up" to describe someone eagerly consuming something, like "The audience "lapped up" every word of the speaker's presentation" or to describe a literal action, like "The cat "lapped up" the milk".

What's a more formal way to say "lap up"?

While "lap up" is generally acceptable, you might use more formal alternatives like "revel in", "savor", or "embrace" depending on the context.

Is "lap up" always positive?

The connotation of "lap up" is generally positive, implying enjoyment or enthusiasm. However, it can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation, suggesting someone is gullible or easily swayed. The sentence "The media "lapped up" the politician's claims without question" shows this nuance.

What's the difference between "lap up" and "soak up"?

"Lap up" implies active and eager consumption or enjoyment, while "soak up" suggests passive absorption. For example, you might "lap up" praise but "soak up" the atmosphere.