Phrasal verb
belong with
Definition
phrasal verb. to be in the right place because you fit in or match with someone or something else.
phrasal verb. to be appropriately placed or classified in association with another person, group, or category due to shared qualities or mutual suitability.
Examples
“Those books belong with the others on the top shelf.”
“She finally felt like she belonged with that group of friends because they shared her interests.”
“The curator argued that the ancient artifact belonged with the rest of the collection in the national museum rather than in a private gallery.”
Examples
simple
“Those books belong with the others on the top shelf.”
contextual
“She finally felt like she belonged with that group of friends because they shared her interests.”
complex
“The curator argued that the ancient artifact belonged with the rest of the collection in the national museum rather than in a private gallery.”
Usage
usually followed by a person, a group, or a specific category of objects.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'belong to' (ownership); 'belong with' focuses on compatibility, harmony, or logical grouping rather than possession.
Pitfall
This chair belongs with me.
This chair belongs to me.
use 'belong to' for legal ownership; 'belong with' implies that two things should be kept together because they match.
Phrasal verb
Particles
with
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
belong + with + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/belong-with