What does the phrasal verb “bargain on” mean?

What are the definitions of “bargain on”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Expect something to happen ( usually negative ).

  I hadn't BARGAINED ON him coming.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bargain on”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb bargain on is to expect something to happen, usually in a negative context. It means that you did not plan or prepare for a particular situation or event.

What are the different verb forms of “bargain on”?

Root Verb	bargain on
Third Person Singular Present	bargains on
Present Participle	bargaining on
Simple Past	bargained on
Past Participle	bargained on

Example

I didn't bargain on the rain, so I didn't bring an umbrella.

Example

She never bargains on traffic, so she's always late.

Example

He is bargaining on the project taking longer than expected.

Example

We bargained on having more time to finish the assignment.

Example

They had bargained on a better outcome for their team.

What kind of phrasal verb is “bargain on”?

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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

“bargain 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

I hadn't bargained on the weather being so cold.

Example

She bargained on facing difficulties during the trip.

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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

“bargain 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

I hadn't bargained on the weather being so cold.

Example

She bargained on facing difficulties during the trip.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “bargain on”?

Bargain on something happening

Expect a specific event or situation to occur, usually with a negative connotation.

Example

He didn't bargain on the meeting lasting so long, so he missed his train.

Bargain on someone doing something

Expect a particular person to do something, usually with a negative connotation.

Example

She didn't bargain on her friend canceling their plans at the last minute.

Bargain on a particular outcome

Expect a specific result or consequence, usually with a negative connotation.

Example

They didn't bargain on the project costing so much money.

Good things to know

Does “bargain on” have an informal or formal tone?

Bargain on is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in everyday conversations. In more formal settings, it is better to use alternative phrases such as 'expect,' 'anticipate,' or 'count on.'

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “bargain on”?

Synonyms

• expect
• anticipate
• foresee
• predict
• count on
• plan for
• prepare for

Antonyms

• disregard
• ignore
• overlook
• underestimate
• discount
• doubt
• disbelieve