clean up after
A2 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words
To clean the mess that someone else made.
Literal meaning: To clean after (following) someone — doing the cleaning that follows their actions.
Meanings
1 A2 neutral
To clean the mess or disorder that another person or animal has left behind.
"I'm tired of always cleaning up after you — put your dishes in the sink!"
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
The particle 'after' identifies the person or animal who made the mess. Commonly used by parents about children, or pet owners. Often carries a tone of mild frustration or resignation.
Commonly used with
dog kids children guests yourself others
Forms
Base
clean up after
I/you/we/they
3rd person
cleans up after
he/she/it
Past simple
cleaned up after
yesterday
Past participle
cleaned up after
have + pp
-ing form
cleaning up after
continuous
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