What are the definitions of “quit on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Stop working, associating or being friends. with someone, especially when they need support.
They QUIT ON me just when things got rough.
- 2Stop working or functioning.
My phone has QUIT ON me- can I borrow yours?
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “quit on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb quit on is to stop supporting, working with, or being friends with someone, especially when they need help or assistance. It can also mean to stop working or functioning, usually referring to a device or machine.
What are the different verb forms of “quit on”?
| Root Verb | quit on |
| Third Person Singular Present | quits on |
| Present Participle | quitting on |
| Simple Past | quit on |
| Past Participle | quit on |
Example
I can't believe you would quit on me during such a difficult time.
Example
She never quits on her friends, no matter how tough things get.
Example
He is quitting on his team just before the big game.
Example
My computer quit on me right before the deadline.
Example
He had quit on his friend when he needed him the most.
What kind of phrasal verb is “quit 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
“quit 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 quit on her friend during a difficult time.
Example
My phone quit on me, so I need to get it fixed.
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
“quit 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 quit on her friend during a difficult time.
Example
My phone quit on me, so I need to get it fixed.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “quit on”?
Good things to know
Does “quit on” have an informal or formal tone?
Quit on is a neutral to informal phrasal verb. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can be used in both casual and more formal settings, depending on the context. However, in very formal situations, it might be more appropriate to use alternatives such as 'abandon' or 'cease functioning'.