What does the phrasal verb “come on” mean?

What are the definitions of “come on”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Encouragement.

  COME ON; don't give up now when you're so close to finishing.

• 2. Start an illness.

  I've got a bit of a headache. I hope it doesn't mean I've got flu COMING ON.

• 3. Start 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”?

Come on to someone

To flirt or make romantic advances towards someone.

Example

He was coming on to her at the party, but she wasn't interested.

Come on strong

To be very assertive or aggressive in one's approach.

Example

She came on strong during the negotiation, which caught them off guard.

Come on the scene

To appear or become available, often referring to new products or trends.

Example

When smartphones came on the scene, they changed the way we communicate.

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.

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

Synonyms

• encourage
• urge
• motivate
• support
• inspire
• cheer
• boost
• stimulate

Antonyms

• discourage
• deter
• dissuade
• hinder
• impede
• obstruct
• prevent
• thwart