What are the definitions of “come on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Encouragement.
COME ON; don't give up now when you're so close to finishing.
- 2Start an illness.
I've got a bit of a headache. I hope it doesn't mean I've got flu COMING ON.
- 3Start functioning ( machines, etc ).
The central heating COMES ON automatically an hour before I have to get up.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “come on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb come on is to encourage someone to do something or to continue doing something. It is often used to motivate someone or to show support. For example, you might say come on to a friend who is trying to finish a difficult task.
What are the different verb forms of “come on”?
Root Verb | come on |
Third Person Singular Present | comes on |
Present Participle | coming on |
Simple Past | came on |
Past Participle | come on |
Example
The coach shouted, 'Come on! You can do it!'
Example
The heater comes on when the temperature drops.
Example
I feel a cold coming on; I should take some medicine.
Example
The lights came on when the show started.
Example
The rain had come on suddenly, soaking everyone.
What kind of phrasal verb is “come 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
“come 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 lights came on when the show started.
Example
I feel a cold coming on; I should take some medicine.
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
“come 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 lights came on when the show started.
Example
I feel a cold coming on; I should take some medicine.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “come on”?
Good things to know
Does “come on” have an informal or formal tone?
Come on is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations. It may not be appropriate for formal settings or written communication, depending on the context. In formal situations, alternatives such as 'encourage' or 'urge' can be used.