What are the definitions of “sleep on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Think about something.
My boss said she'd have to SLEEP ON it when I asked her for a raise.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “sleep on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb sleep on is to think about something, usually a decision or a problem, overnight before making a decision. It implies that you need some time to consider your options and make a well-informed choice.
What are the different verb forms of “sleep on”?
| Root Verb | sleep on |
| Third Person Singular Present | sleeps on |
| Present Participle | sleeping on |
| Simple Past | slept on |
| Past Participle | slept on |
Example
I need to sleep on this decision before I can give you an answer.
Example
She always sleeps on important decisions to make sure she's making the right choice.
Example
He is sleeping on the job offer before giving his final answer.
Example
They slept on the idea and decided to go ahead with the project the next day.
Example
After having slept on the proposal, she agreed to the terms.
What kind of phrasal verb is “sleep 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
“sleep 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
I need to sleep on this decision.
Example
She slept on the problem and found a solution the next day.
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
“sleep 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
I need to sleep on this decision.
Example
She slept on the problem and found a solution the next day.
Good things to know
Does “sleep on” have an informal or formal tone?
Sleep on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal situations. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, such as business meetings or professional discussions, depending on the context.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “sleep on”?
Synonyms
- ponder
- consider
- deliberate
- mull over
- contemplate
- reflect on
- think about
- weigh up
Antonyms
- hurry
- decide quickly
- act impulsively
- rush into
- jump to conclusions
- make a snap decision
