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What does the phrasal verb “catch on” mean?

What are the definitions of “catch on”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

  • 1Become popular.

    Many critics were shocked when techno CAUGHT ON in the clubs.

  • 2Finally understand what is going on.

    Everyone else realised what was happening, but it took Henry ages to CATCH ON.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb catch on is to become popular or trendy. It can refer to a fashion, a type of music, or any other trend that gains popularity among people. Another common meaning is to understand something after a period of confusion or not realizing what is happening.

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

Root Verbcatch on
Third Person Singular Presentcatches on
Present Participlecatching on
Simple Pastcaught on
Past Participlecaught on

Example

I hope this new fashion trend catches on soon.

Example

The new dance craze catches on quickly among teenagers.

Example

The new technology is catching on in the business world.

Example

The idea caught on and became a huge success.

Example

The trend has caught on in many countries.

What kind of phrasal verb is “catch 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.)

Intransitive verb

“catch on” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

The new fashion trend caught on quickly.

Example

It took her a while to catch on to the joke.

📝

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

“catch 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

The new fashion trend caught on quickly.

Example

It took her a while to catch on to the joke.

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

Catch on fire

Start burning, usually accidentally.

Example

The dry leaves caught on fire, causing a small forest fire.

Catch on to something

Begin to understand or realize something.

Example

She finally caught on to the fact that he was lying.

Catch on with someone

Become popular or well-liked by someone.

Example

The new TV show caught on with viewers and became a hit.

Good things to know

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

Catch on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as news articles or business presentations, depending on the specific context.

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

Synonyms

Antonyms

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