own-up-to-noun
Pattern: own-up-to-noun
Structure Overview
Formula: own + up + to + Noun/Verb-ing
Core Meaning: A common phrasal verb meaning to confess to a fault, crime, or mistake, and to take full responsibility for it. Crucially, the "to" acts as a preposition, requiring a noun or a gerund (Verb-ing).
💬 Contextual Examples
- He refused to own up to his mistakes, blaming the team instead.
- Someone needs to own up to leaving the fridge door open all night.
🎴 Interactive Web Practice (Click to Reveal)
Practice 1: It takes courage to own ______ to a major failure at work.
Answer:
up
Practice 2: She finally owned up ______ breaking her mother's favorite vase.
Answer:
to
🔗 Knowledge Base Connections
- 🔑 Parent Keyword: own