What are the definitions of “bank on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Count or rely on.
I'm BANKING ON your help, I can't do it alone.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bank on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb bank on is to count on or rely on someone or something. It means that you trust or depend on someone or something to happen or to help you.
What are the different verb forms of “bank on”?
| Root Verb | bank on |
| Third Person Singular Present | banks on |
| Present Participle | banking on |
| Simple Past | banked on |
| Past Participle | banked on |
Example
You can always bank on me to help you with your homework.
Example
She banks on her parents' support during difficult times.
Example
He is banking on the weather being nice for the picnic.
Example
They banked on their team winning the championship.
Example
I had banked on getting a promotion, but it didn't happen.
What kind of phrasal verb is “bank on”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“bank on” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
You can bank on my support.
Example
She banked on the bus arriving on time.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“bank on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
You can bank on my support.
Example
She banked on the bus arriving on time.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “bank on”?
Bank on an opportunity
Rely on a chance or possibility.
Example
He is banking on getting a scholarship to attend college.
Good things to know
Does “bank on” have an informal or formal tone?
Bank on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
