What are the definitions of “cheat on”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

1Be sexually unfaithful.
She CHEATED ON me with my friend.
2Deceive or betray, often in a sexual and / or emotional context.
She thought he had always been faithful to her, but he had been CHEATING ON her ever since their wedding day (with one of the bridesmaids).

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb cheat on is to be unfaithful to someone, usually in a romantic relationship. It means that a person is involved in a sexual or emotional relationship with someone other than their partner.

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

Root Verb	cheat on
Third Person Singular Present	cheats on
Present Participle	cheating on
Simple Past	cheated on
Past Participle	cheated on

Example

He decided to cheat on his girlfriend while she was away.

Example

She cheats on her husband when he is on business trips.

Example

He is cheating on his wife with a coworker.

Example

She cheated on her boyfriend last year.

Example

He had cheated on his partner multiple times before they broke up.

What kind of phrasal verb is “cheat 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

“cheat 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

She cheated on her husband with a coworker.

Example

He cheated on his girlfriend while she was away.

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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

“cheat 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

She cheated on her husband with a coworker.

Example

He cheated on his girlfriend while she was away.

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

Cheat on a test

To use dishonest methods to achieve a good score on a test or exam.

Example

He was caught cheating on the final exam and received a failing grade.

Cheat on a diet

To eat unhealthy or forbidden foods while trying to follow a strict diet.

Example

She cheated on her diet by eating a slice of cake at the party.

Cheat on someone with someone

To specify the person with whom someone is being unfaithful.

Example

He cheated on his wife with his secretary.

Good things to know

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

Cheat on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. However, the topic of infidelity is sensitive and should be approached with caution in any setting.

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

Synonyms

deceive
betray
be unfaithful
two-time
commit adultery
have an affair

Antonyms

be faithful
be loyal
be true
be devoted
be committed