Are the words "shut up" a verb?

Question

If not, what is it? A noun? And I mean 'shut up' as in one word (meaning be quiet).

Answer 1

It's a verb phrase

See verb phrases 18d

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/shut+up

Answer 2

Yes. "Shut up", as an instruction, is the imperative form of the colloquial verb "shut up". The infinitive is "to shut up", and consists of a main verb (shut) plus an adverbial (up). The adverbial defines how the main verb should be completed. Eg. How should the person shut? Up. Though the term "shut up" can form part of a verb phrase, alone or when used in its imperative form, it is not a verb phrase. A verb phrase consists of a main verb preceded by a helping, or auxiliary, verb. Examples of verb phrases are "have written" (to have written), or "is cycling" (to be cycling).

Answer 3

I think you just answered this question yourself. If you mean it as "be quiet", it is a verb. Be is a verb. Ex.) To BE skinny. To BE a person.

Answer 4

"shut" is a verb. As in "shut the door".

And "up" is a preposition. xD

Wow, look at me. I sound like a nerd.

Answer 5

"Shut up" isn't one word, it is two words. "Shut" is a verb. "up" is not. (now I'm stumped as to what article of speech it is - adverb, etc.?).



The noun in this sentance is understood to be "you". For instance, if I say "Leave me alone", it is understood that I mean "You leave me alone".

Answer 6

Yes it is a verb, as you need to say both words in order to be rude.



We have other verbs like it ...stand by....close up...stand up...stand down...

cross over.....pass by... fly over..etc.

Answer 7

No, it's a verb--the "shut" part, anyway.

Answer 8

If its not, it should be