What are the definitions of “jump on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Criticize, attack.
Everyone JUMPED ON me when I raised the issue.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “jump on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb jump on is to criticize or attack someone, usually verbally. It often happens when someone expresses an unpopular opinion or makes a mistake, and others quickly react with negative comments or disapproval.
What are the different verb forms of “jump on”?
| Root Verb | jump on |
| Third Person Singular Present | jumps on |
| Present Participle | jumping on |
| Simple Past | jumped on |
| Past Participle | jumped on |
Example
Don't jump on her just because she made a small mistake.
Example
He always jumps on people for their grammar mistakes.
Example
They are jumping on him for his controversial opinion.
Example
She jumped on me when I suggested a different approach.
Example
I was jumped on by my colleagues for my proposal.
What kind of phrasal verb is “jump 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
“jump 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 jumped on him for his mistake.
Example
They jumped on her idea immediately.
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
“jump 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 jumped on him for his mistake.
Example
They jumped on her idea immediately.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “jump on”?
To quickly take advantage of an opportunity or situation.
Example
She jumped on the opportunity to work with the famous director.
Good things to know
Does “jump on” have an informal or formal tone?
Jump on is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations. In more formal settings, it is better to use synonyms like 'criticize' or 'attack' instead.
