What are the definitions of “jam on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Apply or operate something forcefully.
Jack JAMMED ON the brakes when the rabbit ran in front of his car.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “jam on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb jam on is to apply or operate something forcefully, usually in a sudden or urgent manner. It is often used when talking about pressing or pushing a button, pedal, or other control device.
What are the different verb forms of “jam on”?
| Root Verb | jam on |
| Third Person Singular Present | jams on |
| Present Participle | jamming on |
| Simple Past | jammed on |
| Past Participle | jammed on |
Example
He jammed on the brakes to avoid hitting the pedestrian.
Example
She jams on the gas pedal when the light turns green.
Example
He is jamming on the button to call the elevator.
Example
Yesterday, she jammed on the brakes to avoid an accident.
Example
The driver had jammed on the brakes, leaving skid marks on the road.
What kind of phrasal verb is “jam 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.)
Transitive verb
“jam 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
He jammed on the brakes to stop the car.
Example
She jammed on the button to start the machine.
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
“jam 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
He jammed on the brakes to stop the car.
Example
She jammed on the button to start the machine.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “jam on”?
Good things to know
Does “jam on” have an informal or formal tone?
Jam on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, such as in reports or articles, depending on the specific context.
