What are the definitions of “frown on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Disapprove.
He FROWNS ON people making personal calls at work.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “frown on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb frown on is to disapprove of something or someone's actions. It means that someone does not like or agree with what is happening.
What are the different verb forms of “frown on”?
| Root Verb | frown on |
| Third Person Singular Present | frowns on |
| Present Participle | frowning on |
| Simple Past | frowned on |
| Past Participle | frowned on |
Example
Parents often frown on their children playing video games for too long.
Example
She frowns on people who litter in the park.
Example
The teacher is frowning on the students who are cheating during the exam.
Example
The company frowned on employees using social media during work hours.
Example
His behavior was frowned on by his colleagues.
What kind of phrasal verb is “frown 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
“frown 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 community frowns on loud parties late at night.
Example
The school frowns on bullying and takes it very seriously.
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
“frown 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 community frowns on loud parties late at night.
Example
The school frowns on bullying and takes it very seriously.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “frown on”?
Good things to know
Does “frown on” have an informal or formal tone?
Frown 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 in a professional or academic environment.
