What are the definitions of “live on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Use money for basic necessities.
They have to LIVE ON $ 200 a week.
- 2Not be forgotten.
He's been dead for many years, but his name LIVES ON.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “live on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb live on is to use money for basic necessities, such as food, clothing, and shelter. It often refers to managing or surviving with a limited amount of money.
What are the different verb forms of “live on”?
| Root Verb | live on |
| Third Person Singular Present | lives on |
| Present Participle | living on |
| Simple Past | lived on |
| Past Participle | lived on |
Example
Many people live on a tight budget to save money.
Example
She lives on a small pension after retiring.
Example
He is living on his savings while looking for a new job.
Example
They lived on very little money when they were students.
Example
He has lived on a strict budget for years to pay off his debts.
What kind of phrasal verb is “live 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
“live 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
She lives on a small pension.
Example
They live on a tight budget.
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
“live 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 lives on a small pension.
Example
They live on a tight budget.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “live on”?
Good things to know
Does “live on” have an informal or formal tone?
Live 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 academic or professional discussions.
