What are the definitions of “prattle on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Talk too much.
Geoff just PRATTLED ON instead of giving a straight answer.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “prattle on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb prattle on is to talk too much, often about unimportant or trivial matters. It usually implies that the speaker is not being concise or clear in their communication.
What are the different verb forms of “prattle on”?
| Root Verb | prattle on |
| Third Person Singular Present | prattles on |
| Present Participle | prattling on |
| Simple Past | prattled on |
| Past Participle | prattled on |
Example
She always prattles on about her favorite TV shows.
Example
He prattles on about his hobbies for hours.
Example
They are prattling on about their vacation plans.
Example
Yesterday, she prattled on about her new job.
Example
He had prattled on about his favorite movies for too long.
What kind of phrasal verb is “prattle 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
“prattle 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 prattled on about her day.
Example
He prattled on during the meeting.
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
“prattle 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 prattled on about her day.
Example
He prattled on during the meeting.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “prattle on”?
Good things to know
Does “prattle on” have an informal or formal tone?
Prattle on is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations. It is not commonly used in formal settings or written communication. Instead, more formal alternatives such as 'ramble on' or 'talk at length' can be used.
