What are the definitions of “crack on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Continue doing something with energy.
We had to CRACK ON to get everything finished on time.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “crack on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb crack on is to continue doing something with energy, enthusiasm, or determination. It is often used when someone wants to encourage others or themselves to keep working hard or to make progress.
What are the different verb forms of “crack on”?
| Root Verb | crack on |
| Third Person Singular Present | cracks on |
| Present Participle | cracking on |
| Simple Past | cracked on |
| Past Participle | cracked on |
Example
We need to crack on with the project to meet the deadline.
Example
She cracks on with her work despite the challenges.
Example
They are cracking on with the preparations for the event.
Example
He cracked on with his studies and finished his degree.
Example
We have cracked on with the tasks and completed them on time.
What kind of phrasal verb is “crack 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
“crack 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
Let's crack on and finish this project.
Example
She cracked on with her work.
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
“crack 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
Let's crack on and finish this project.
Example
She cracked on with her work.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “crack on”?
Good things to know
Does “crack on” have an informal or formal tone?
Crack on is an informal phrasal verb, commonly used in everyday conversations and casual contexts. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings.
