What does the phrasal verb “fix on” mean?

What are the definitions of “fix on”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. To focus or concentrate on something.

  I kept my eyes fixed on the horizon.

• 2. To decide on or choose something.

  We’ve finally fixed on the Lake District for our summer holiday.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fix on is to focus or concentrate on something. It can also mean to decide on or choose something.

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

Root Verb	fix on
Third Person Singular Present	fixes on
Present Participle	fixing on
Simple Past	fixed on
Past Participle	fixed on

Example

She fixes on the target before taking the shot.

Example

He fixes on the details of the project.

Example

They are fixing on the best solution for the problem.

Example

Yesterday, she fixed on the most important task to complete.

Example

The decision was fixed on after much deliberation.

What kind of phrasal verb is “fix 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

“fix 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 fixed on the target.

Example

They fixed on the best solution.

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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

“fix 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 fixed on the target.

Example

They fixed on the best solution.

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

Fix on a date

To decide on a specific date for an event or appointment.

Example

We fixed on a date for the wedding next year.

Fix on a goal

To focus on a specific goal or objective.

Example

He fixed on the goal of completing the marathon in under four hours.

Fix on a plan

To decide on a specific plan or course of action.

Example

After much discussion, the team fixed on a plan to improve sales.

Good things to know

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

Fix on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.

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

Synonyms

• focus
• concentrate
• decide
• choose
• determine
• select
• settle on
• zero in on

Antonyms

• ignore
• overlook
• neglect
• disregard
• abandon
• postpone
• indecisive
• hesitate