What are the definitions of “rub off on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Pass a quality or characteristic to people.
His enthusiasm RUBS OFF ON everyone around him.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “rub off on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb rub off on is to pass a quality or characteristic from one person to another, usually through close contact or spending time together. It means that someone's behavior, attitude, or habits influence others around them.
What are the different verb forms of “rub off on”?
| Root Verb | rub off on |
| Third Person Singular Present | rubs off on |
| Present Participle | rubbing off on |
| Simple Past | rubbed off on |
| Past Participle | rubbed off on |
Example
Her positive attitude rubs off on everyone she meets.
Example
His hardworking nature rubs off on his teammates.
Example
Their kindness is rubbing off on the people around them.
Example
Her love for reading rubbed off on her children.
Example
His passion for music has rubbed off on his younger brother.
What kind of phrasal verb is “rub off 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
“rub off 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
Her optimism rubs off on everyone she meets.
Example
His dedication to fitness rubbed off on his friends.
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
“rub off 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
Her optimism rubs off on everyone she meets.
Example
His dedication to fitness rubbed off on his friends.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “rub off on”?
Good things to know
Does “rub off on” have an informal or formal tone?
Rub off 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, depending on the specific context.
